The Top Riskiest Destinations in the Kiwi’s Wish List

New Zealand is one of the most unusual countries in the world, and it’s definitely home to some risky travel destinations! But which ones will really get your heart pumping?

Let’s start with a basic assertion; New Zealand is one of the most fascinating countries in the world, and not only for the fact that it’s home to more sheep (30 million) than people (the country has a human population of just 4.9 million).

This nation is also home to some of the most fascinating and high-octane travel experiences in the world. Some people compare the feeling when visiting these to the excitement and thrill of gambling (well in New Zealand you can have it all, but more information on the online casinos in nz you’ll find here). Below, we’ve explored the nation further whilst appraising the riskiest travel experiences that it has to offer!

Immerse Yourself in Adventure Tourism With Taupo Bungy

If there’s one name that’s synonymous with bungee jumping, it’s the renowned entrepreneur A.J. Hackett.

In fact, the thrill-seeking Hackett is the man who actually popularised the extreme sport of bungee jumping in the first place, whilst his company has recently added a new adventure tourism experience to its growing portfolio.

This is the ‘Taupo Bungy’, which provides a stark and steep drop in epic surroundings and the abundant glory of nature.

Make no mistake; Taupo happens to be one of the most spectacular parts of the world, distinguished by a stunning lakefront setting and home to numerous outdoor sporting activities from fishing to jet-boating.

This makes Taupo a haven for adventure travellers, with the bungee now sitting at the pinnacle of this experience as you plunge from a towering cliff-top astride the gorgeous Waikato River.

You can also enjoy a safe bungee jump with this firm, which employs the most qualified instructors in the industry and launched the world’s first commercial bungee operation more than 30 years ago.

Jump Off One of New Zealand’s Tallest Buildings

OK, we recognise that this isn’t necessarily everyone’s cup of tea, but jumping off one of New Zealand’s tallest buildings certainly represents one of the most thrilling and riskiest things that you can ever do!

This high-octane adventure is available at some of the country’s tallest skyscrapers, most notably the incredible Sky Tower.

Here, you’ll harness up on the 60th floor as you look out across New Zealand’s diverse natural terrain before you walk the gangplank and wait patiently for the adrenaline-conscious to count you down!

From here, it’s all down to you, and we challenge you to keep your eyes peeled for the 192 metres, 85kph and eight-second drop to make the most of this unique experience. This is easier said than done, of course, particularly when falling from a great height at pace!

Fortunately, the full-body harness provides the ultimate in comfort and security, enabling you to relax as you take this incredible plunge and enjoy stunning, 360° views of Auckland’s stunning landscape.

White Water Rafting in Rotorua

If jumping off the 60th floor of a skyscraper represents the most challenging thrill-seeking activity, then white water rafting in the great outdoors isn’t far behind.

The destination of Rotorua is perfect for white water rafting, as it serves as the nation’s hub for all things geothermal (including geysers, hot natural springs and even boiling mud pools!).

It’s best-known for its dare-devil white water rafting run, which unfolds across the iconic Kaituna River.

Here, you’ll raft through a narrow, bush-lined gorge with sheer rock walls and plunging rapids, whilst also encountering steep waterfalls and pools that are steeped in rich Maori history. In fact, this would make for an educational experience were it not so fast-paced and exciting, but we definitely wouldn’t recommend taking a notebook and pen!

Your world-class guides will say a traditional Maori karakia (or prayer) of thanks and protection before they send you down this incredible grade five rivers, and whilst we hope you won’t need this it may provide a little assurance when starting out.

White water rafting here makes for an incredible and once-in-a-lifetime experience, thanks largely to the combination of excitement and exposure to a rich and unique heritage.

The history of this location is truly astounding, as during past tribal wars women and children were hidden in caves behind and around the seven-metre Tutea Falls.

Today, this is the highest commercially rafted waterfall in the world, and it undoubtedly provides a fitting and blood-pumping climax to a wonderful adventure.