MOTUEKA SKYDIVE FIELD GUIDE
Edge of the Sky: 18,000ft Tandem Skydive Over Abel Tasman
A guided tandem jump from New Zealand’s highest commercial altitude with a 40-minute scenic climb; this guide explains what to expect and the practical details.
Edge of the Sky: 18,000ft Tandem Skydive Over Abel Tasman.
From Motueka, INFLITE Abel Tasman runs the 18,000ft tandem skydive—the highest commercial jump in New Zealand—pairing you with a professional Tandem Master for a scenic climb, a sequence of freefall and parachute flight, and sweeping views of Abel Tasman’s beaches, mountains and ocean.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
40-minute scenic climb to New Zealand’s highest jump altitude
A 40-minute scenic flight lifts you to jump altitude above Abel Tasman, delivering panoramic coastal and mountain views before the exit—this is the operator’s flagship, highest-altitude tandem skydive in the country.
The freefall — brief, intense, and variably described
Operator materials describe the freefall in different ways across their factsheets; timing references vary between documents, so expect a short, high-adrenaline freefall before parachute deployment.
Minutes of canopy flight over beaches and ocean
After the freefall the parachute carries you for several minutes — the operator notes roughly 5–7 minutes under canopy — offering sustained views of Abel Tasman’s coastline and inland ridgelines before landing.
What the day feels like
What it Feels Like
Check in at Motueka, board a 40-minute scenic flight to 18,000ft, and when your Tandem Master gives the go-ahead you step into a raw, immediate freefall; a parachute then opens for several minutes of calm canopy flight over Abel Tasman before you return to the drop zone. Allow roughly 2–3 hours for the full outing.
THE FLIGHT
40-minute scenic climb to New Zealand’s highest jump altitude
A 40-minute scenic flight lifts you to jump altitude above Abel Tasman, delivering panoramic coastal and mountain views before the exit—this is the operator’s flagship, highest-altitude tandem skydive in the country.
THE FALL
The freefall — brief, intense, and variably described
Operator materials describe the freefall in different ways across their factsheets; timing references vary between documents, so expect a short, high-adrenaline freefall before parachute deployment.
THE LANDSCAPE
Minutes of canopy flight over beaches and ocean
After the freefall the parachute carries you for several minutes — the operator notes roughly 5–7 minutes under canopy — offering sustained views of Abel Tasman’s coastline and inland ridgelines before landing.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this experience suits — and who should check the fine print.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Allow approximately 2–3 hours for the full experience; the scenic climb to altitude is about 40 minutes. Plan for possible weather delays.
Follow the operator’s pre-jump guidance and the FAQ for itemized instructions; the operator provides tandem harnesses and helmets—check the FAQ or contact the operator for specifics.
The jump operates from Motueka with INFLITE Abel Tasman; book online in advance and confirm weight or any special requirements before arrival.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long does the entire skydive experience take?
Plan for roughly 2–3 hours for the entire experience; the scenic flight to altitude is about 40 minutes.
How long is the freefall?
Operator materials list different figures in different places: one duration reference notes up to 30 seconds, other highlights reference up to 85 seconds, and summary materials describe a longer freefall—consult the operator’s FAQ or staff for the exact timing they will provide on your jump day.
What is the weight limit to jump?
The standard maximum weight is 100kg; the operator can sometimes accommodate guests up to 105kg at the Tandem Master’s discretion and depending on weather, but a surcharge may apply—confirm in advance.
Can first-timers and younger jumpers participate?
Yes—this is a tandem skydive with a professional Tandem Master and is promoted as an accessible entry for first-time jumpers; the operator also notes younger jumpers can benefit from the milder altitude and pressure changes.
Where can I find more detailed pre-jump information?
See the operator’s Frequently Asked Questions page for detailed information on what happens on the day, weather concerns, and other practical matters; you can also contact the operator directly for specifics.