Part of our New Zealand guide.
Three outdoor adventures from our New Zealand coverage, each with its own character and practical details, are gathered here. Whether you are paddling a remote fjord, walking on a glacier, or canyoning in Queenstown, these experiences deliver the raw landscapes the country is known for.
Related travel guides: Things To Do In New Zealand, Beaches In New Zealand, Hidden Gems In New Zealand, Itineraries For New Zealand, and What It Costs In New Zealand.
Doubtful Sound Kayak Trip
Doubtful Sound is a remote fjord on New Zealand’s South Island, often overshadowed by Milford Sound but offering a quieter, more immersive paddling experience. Kayaking here means gliding across calm waters with towering cliffs and lush rainforests on either side. Wildlife enthusiasts regularly spot dolphins, seals, and penguins. The only sounds are your paddle dipping into the water and the distant call of native birds. This is a full-day or multi-day kayak trip that requires a boat transfer across Lake Manapouri and a bus ride over Wilmot Pass to reach the sound. The isolation is the point—there are no roads into Doubtful Sound, and the silence is broken only by waterfalls and wildlife.
Franz Josef Glacier Heli Hike
The Franz Josef Glacier Heli Hike combines a helicopter flight with a guided walk on the glacier itself. Located on the South Island’s West Coast, this adventure begins with a scenic helicopter ride over the terminal face, landing directly on the ice. From there, a guide leads you through ice caves, crevasses, and towering ice formations. You will need sturdy boots and an ice axe—the terrain is active and constantly changing. The hike typically lasts about two to three hours on the ice, and the helicopter flight adds another 10–15 minutes. Weather can cancel departures, so flexibility is essential. This is one of the few places in the world where you can walk on a temperate glacier at such a low altitude.
Queenstown's Adventure Capital
Waterfall canyoning in Queenstown involves descending hidden canyons, sliding down natural rock slides, and plunging into crystal-clear pools. Queenstown’s rugged landscape provides the backdrop. You will explore spots that few tourists see, rappelling down waterfalls and jumping into deep pools. Most guided trips last around four hours and include all equipment—wetsuit, helmet, harness, and boots. The canyons are fed by alpine snowmelt, so the water is cold year-round. This is a physical, adrenaline-filled descent through narrow gorges. For a different angle on the region, the mystery of Waitomo Glowworm caves boat ride offers an adventure that is underground, silent, and lit by bioluminescence.
