What to Expect When Paragliding in Queenstown

There’s nothing quite like the feeling of soaring over Queenstown — the bright blue of Lake Wakatipu, the Remarkables stretching out into the distance, and the rush of fresh alpine air. Whether it’s your first time flying or you’re back for another adventure, here’s a complete guide to what to expect when you take off with Gforce Paragliding.

Before you fly

Your paragliding adventure starts at the top of the Skyline Gondola, you’ll find our desk just outside the Stratosphere Restaurant. Once you’ve checked in with our friendly office team, we’ll take a short walk up together to the take-off point, soaking in the views as you go.

What to bring:

• Comfortable, warm layers
• Enclosed running or hiking shoes
• Sunglasses (optional but recommended)
• Phone, wallet and small bags are fine to bring with us during the flight, the pilots have space for them in their harness. Any larger items, we’ll need to store securely in our office during the flight.
  

We provide all the paragliding equipment you’ll need, including a helmet and harness.

Meet your pilot

Every flight is tandem, meaning you’re securely attached to a highly experienced professional pilot. They’ll walk you through everything before you take off and make sure you’re safe and comfortable the whole way. No experience is needed, just a sense of adventure!

Take off

Launching is easier than most people expect. With your pilot guiding you, you’ll take a few running steps forward… and suddenly you’re gliding through the air. No jumping. No cliff-hanging. Just a smooth lift off the hillside and into the sky.

In the air

This is the moment you’ll remember forever.

Depending on the conditions, your flight from Skyline can last around 7 to 10 minutes, filled with stunning views over Lake Wakatipu, Queenstown town centre & the Remarkables mountain range.

Love a bit of speed and adrenaline? Just let your pilot know! If the wind conditions are right, they can add some exciting turns and maneuvers. Or simply sit back, relax, and take in the magic of flight.

Landing

We descend gently into the Gforce Paragliding landing field located right in the heart of Queenstown, a short 5 minute walk back to the base of the Skyline Gondola. Your pilot handles the landing, just follow their instructions as we glide smoothly onto the grass landing field.

Once you land, you will have the option of a free ride back up the Skyline Gondola to where the activity began, so long as you already have a valid Gondola ticket for that day. We will provide you with a stamp to show the Skyline staff, alongside the original ticket.

Photos & video

Want to relive the moment (or share proof of bravery)? Your pilot will capture awesome in-flight footage you can choose to purchase after you land. ($80) It’s the perfect souvenir of your epic aerial adventure.

How long does it all take?

From check-in to landing, the full experience is typically up to 60 minutes. This includes:

• Check-in at the top of the Gondola
• Safety briefing
• Take off, flight duration and landing
• Optional media viewing post-flight

Ready to take off?

Paragliding in Queenstown is one of the most breathtaking experiences in the world — and the perfect way to see this incredible place from a whole new perspective.

Book your flight today and let’s get you soaring!