Paragliding from Coronet Peak

Tandem paragliding from Coronet Peak is Queenstown's most visually spectacular adventure activity — a 15-25 minute gliding flight from the 1,650-metre summit of Coronet Peak (winter) or the nearby launch sites (summer) down to the Wakatipu basin, with the Remarkables and Lake Wakatipu filling the entire panorama. Flights typically run in summer months (October-March) with operators including GForce Paragliding and Coronet Peak Tandem Hang Gliding.

The experience starts with a 4WD drive up to the launch site, a 5-minute briefing, and a short run into the air — once airborne, the pilot handles all the controls while the passenger enjoys the view or the occasional acrobatic manoeuvre. Flight times depend on thermal conditions; calm clear mornings provide the longest glides. Weight limits (40-110 kg typical) and weather cancellations are common — book for the start of your stay and have a backup day.