For those with a sense of adventure, there are few things more exhilarating than soaring through the air on a zipline. New Zealand’s North Island, with its incredible native forests and dramatic landscapes, provides the perfect backdrop for this kind of activity. Zipline tours offer a unique combination of adrenaline, breathtaking views, and a deep connection with the natural environment.

Choosing the right adventure can be difficult with so many great options available. To assist your planning, we have selected five of the most thrilling zipline tours in the North Island. Our choices are based on a few important factors. We looked for tours that provide a high-quality visitor experience, a strong safety record, and a unique perspective on their surrounding environment. This guide will help you find the perfect high-flying adventure for your trip.

1. Rotorua Canopy Tours

Rotorua Canopy Tours consistently ranks as one of the best nature-based activities in New Zealand. This experience takes you deep into a pristine, ancient native forest just outside of Rotorua. The tour is a masterful blend of adventure and conservation storytelling. As you travel across a network of ziplines, treetop platforms, and swing bridges, your knowledgeable guides share fascinating insights about the forest ecosystem and the efforts to protect it from introduced pests.

The company has two main tours. The Original Canopy Tour is a fantastic all-rounder, while the Ultimate Canopy Tour is longer, higher, and faster for those seeking a bigger thrill. A significant portion of your ticket price goes directly towards the conservation work that is bringing the forest back to life. You can see the results in the increasing birdlife.

  • Best For: Nature lovers, families, and anyone interested in conservation.
  • Key Highlights: Ziplining through an ancient native forest and learning about successful conservation work.
  • Website:canopytours.co.nz

2. Redwoods Altitude (Rotorua)

Set within Rotorua’s famous Whakarewarewa Forest, Redwoods Altitude offers a unique perspective on the magnificent Californian redwood trees. This guided tour takes you on a journey high above the forest floor, navigating a series of 25 jungle bridges and three exciting ziplines. The experience is not just about the thrill, it is also about appreciating the scale and beauty of these giant trees from a viewpoint that is normally inaccessible.

Your guides share stories about the history of the forest, its unique blend of native and exotic trees, and its cultural significance to the local people. The experience is designed to be accessible to a wide range of ages and fitness levels, making it a great option for families and groups looking for a memorable shared adventure.

  • Best For: Families and those wanting to experience the majestic redwood forest from a new angle.
  • Key Highlights: Walking amongst the crowns of giant redwood trees and the scenic forest setting.
  • Website:treewalk.co.nz/altitude
Smiling visitor takes off on a New Zealand zipline adventure through native forest at Driving Creek in Coromandel.

3. Coromandel Zipline Adventures at Driving Creek 

For an experience that combines a thrilling zipline course with a rich story of conservation and creativity, Driving Creek is an essential North Island destination. Located in the beautiful Coromandel Peninsula, this zipline adventure takes you on a journey through a regenerating native forest. The course features eight separate ziplines that crisscross a large canyon, providing spectacular views and an exciting ride through the canopy.

What makes the Driving Creek experience so special is its connection to the wider site. This is not just an adventure course; it is part of a 40-year ecological restoration project. As you fly through the trees, you are witnessing a landscape that is being actively healed and protected. Your guides share the inspiring story of the area’s founder and his vision. Your visit directly funds the ongoing conservation work, including the protection of kiwi and other native species in the sanctuary. It is a brilliant example of how adventure tourism can contribute to positive environmental outcomes.

  • Best For: Eco-conscious adventurers, families, and anyone visiting the Coromandel.
  • Key Highlights: The dual ziplines for racing a friend, the educational conservation focus, and supporting a significant restoration project.
  • Website:drivingcreek.nz/discover/zipline

4. EcoZip Adventures (Waiheke Island)

A short and scenic ferry ride from downtown Auckland, Waiheke Island is known for its vineyards and beautiful beaches. It is also home to EcoZip Adventures. This tour offers a fantastic way to see the island from a different perspective. A series of three impressive, dual-cable ziplines fly you over a working vineyard and a tract of regenerating native forest. From the air, you get stunning views back towards Auckland and across the Hauraki Gulf.

The experience includes a guided walk through the forest, where you will learn about the local flora and fauna and the company’s conservation efforts. The tour finishes with a scenic drive back to your starting point, completing a wonderful half-day excursion. It is a perfect adventure to combine with a day of wine tasting and exploring the island.

  • Best For: Visitors to Auckland, wine lovers, and those seeking a scenic adventure.
  • Key Highlights: Flying over a vineyard, the stunning views of the Hauraki Gulf, and the easy accessibility from Auckland.
  • Website:ecozipadventures.co.nz

5. Waitomo Adventures

While famous for its glowworm caves, Waitomo also offers a range of thrilling above-ground adventures. Waitomo Adventures runs a zipline course that provides a different kind of rush. The highlight is a 280 metre zipline that sends you flying over a lush valley, offering incredible views of the surrounding limestone country.

This activity is often combined with their other adventures, such as caving or black water rafting, allowing you to create a full day of excitement. The guides are professional and fun, ensuring you have a safe and memorable time. It is a great way to experience the beautiful landscape of the Waitomo region from a completely different angle.

  • Best For: Adrenaline junkies and those wanting to combine multiple adventure activities.
  • Key Highlights: The speed and length of the main zipline and the beautiful valley views.
  • Website:waitomoadventures.com

Frequently Asked Questions

Are zipline tours safe?
Yes. Reputable operators in New Zealand have excellent safety records and adhere to strict industry standards. You will be provided with all necessary safety equipment, including helmets and harnesses, and will receive a full safety briefing before the tour. Guides are professionally trained to ensure your safety throughout the experience.

Is there a weight or age limit?
Most zipline tours have minimum and or maximum weight limits for safety reasons, which typically range from about 30kg to 125kg. Age limits can also apply. It is important to check the specific requirements of the tour operator on their website before you book.

What should I wear for a zipline tour?
You should wear comfortable clothing that is suitable for the weather on the day. Layers are always a good idea. Closed-toe shoes, such as trainers or hiking boots, are essential and are a requirement for all tours. You should not wear any loose-fitting items, and long hair should be tied back.