BEST PARAGLIDING SITES IN NEW ZEALAND

Queenstown

Why go to Queenstown, New Zealand

Queenstown is heralded as the adventure sports capital of New Zealand, nestled right in the mountains and offering a plethora of activities including skiin ...

Wanaka

Why go to Wanaka, New Zealand

Wanaka is celebrated as one of the premier flying destinations in New Zealand, offering an exceptional mix of scenic beauty and flying opportunities. It's a pl ...

Matamata

Why go to Matamata, New Zealand

Matamata, located in the heart of the Waikato region on New Zealand's North Island, is famously known as the filming location for Hobbiton in the "Lord of th ...

Mangawhai Heads

Muriwai Beach

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https://www.cloudbase.org.nz/site-guide/flying-site-muriwai-maori-bay

Water Front Lake Hawea

Located in the Otago region near Wanaka, New Zealand, the Low Water Front cliff at Lake Hawea domain offers a unique paragliding experience. With a height of 360 meters and a horizontal distance of 4 meters, this site is occasionally used for soaring flights. The site record stands at 4.5 km. For more details, visit [Lake Hawea Paragliding Site](https://parawait.org/sites/water-front-lake-hawea/).

Piha North

Piha North is a paragliding site located on the West Coast of Auckland. To reach it, drive from Titirangi to Piha Beach, park at the northern end, and walk approximately 300 meters along the beach. Follow the signposted track to White's Beach, climb the hill, and turn right at the top of the ridge to reach the first bach. The takeoff area is part of this property. The launch height for the northern site is 270 feet above sea level. Experienced pilots can fly south from Piha to the Manukau Heads and north to Muriwai. There is ample landing space on the beach. The site is best suited for winds coming from the South or South West. The Auckland Hang Gliding and Paragliding Club operates a weather station at Muriwai, which can be accessed at https://holfuy.com/en/weather/168/. Takeoff is on private property, so you must obtain permission from the owners before flying. Contact the site monitor, Joe Ward, at 0274 718 418 for permission. The designated site radio channel is Channel 20 - 476.900MHz. Paragliding at this site requires a PG 2 rating and at least 60 hours of flight experience. Be cautious of the wind potentially swinging to the West, as this can create turbulence over the headland to the north of the launch site. Lion Rock, located in the middle of Piha Beach, marks the border of Whenuapai controlled airspace and VFR Transit Lane T156. The height ceiling to the north of Lion Rock is 1,500 feet, while to the south it is 2,500 feet. For more details, visit the Auckland Hang Gliding and Paragliding Club's site guide at https://www.cloudbase.org.nz/site-guide/piha-north.

Muriwai Maori Bay Maukatia

Maori Bay, also known as Maukatia, is a beautiful coastal paragliding site located just south of Muriwai Beach, New Zealand. The main takeoff is on a grassy slope in front of the car park, accessible via Waitea Road. The takeoff height ranges from 80 to 100 feet. This site is regularly used and offers coastal soaring and cross-country opportunities, particularly in medium to strong winds. The best wind direction for flying here is WSW, with a small south wind option available in front of the takeoff. There are several important rules and restrictions to follow: 1. Over-flying the gannet colony on the tip of Otakamiro Point is prohibited, especially during August, September, and October. 2. Takeoff and landing on the right-hand shoulder of the bowl on the southern side of Otakamiro Point, to the right of the Maori Bay car park, is prohibited as this is a tapu (sacred) area. 3. Landing on the beach to the north is prohibited during the peak season from December to February. 4. Avoid landing on the road or car park to prevent danger to both pilots and the public and to avoid displeasing the Rangers. The site operates on radio channel 20 (476.900MHz) and has specific requirements for pilots: - Hang Gliding: HG Intermediate - Paragliding: PG 2 + 20 hours Cautions include increased compression in higher winds near the car park and potential turbulence off the southern point. Pilots should also be aware of radio-controlled model aircraft in the area and avoid overflying certain properties. The presence of nesting petrels in the forested area of Otakamiro Point requires pilots to stay strictly on marked tracks to avoid disturbing the birds. The petrels nest from April to late December, and care should be taken not to disturb their burrows. The airspace at Muriwai is located in VFR Transit Lane T156 with a height ceiling of 2000 feet A.S.L. Beyond the high water mark is Class D Controlled Airspace. For more detailed information and updates, visit: - [Parawait Muriwai Site](https://parawait.org/sites/muriwai/) - [Cloudbase Muriwai Maori Bay](https://www.cloudbase.org.nz/site-guide/flying-site-muriwai-maori-bay) Site Monitor: Joe Ward (0274 718 418) Please respect the sacred Maori land and the local community's preferences to ensure continued access to this stunning paragliding location.

Maioro Club Site

Waiuku, New Zealand, is home to a popular paragliding site, particularly favored by beginners due to its easy conditions and accessible terrain.
 The site features a 40-meter gentle cliff, making it ideal for training and regular soaring flights. 

Cross-country (XC) flying is possible here, but if a school or training session is in progress, you must seek permission before flying. 

The Auckland Hang Gliding and Paragliding Club manages this site. For more detailed information, visit their site guide: [Auckland Hang Gliding and Paragliding Club](https://www.cloudbase.org.nz/site-guide/flying-site-maioro). 

The take-off area is spacious, and the landing zone is conveniently located on the beach in front of the take-off point. The best wind directions for flying are from the northwest to southwest/south-southwest. Note that the wind speed at launch is typically about 5 km/hr higher than what the weather station indicates due to its inland location. 

For communication, the site radio channel is Channel 20 at 476.900MHz. If schools are operating, they usually use Channels 10 and 26. 
There are specific restrictions and cautions to be aware of: - Hang Gliding: Novice level - Paragliding: PG2 level When driving to the site, use caution, especially on the beach. Only 4-wheel drive vehicles should be used, and it's best to drive during low tide or well above the high tide mark to avoid getting stuck. 
The site is heavily used for paragliding training. Beginners under instruction will have red or orange streamers attached to their harnesses. Please be courteous and avoid flying directly in front of the launch area to give space to schools and their students. The airspace has a height restriction of 2,500 feet A.S.L, reducing to 1,500 feet approximately 8 km north of Karioitahi and over the township of Waiuku. Access to the site is sensitive.
 The site owner prefers minimal public disturbance and has occasionally withdrawn consent for use. Therefore, access should be obtained via the beach rather than through the owner's property. For any issues or further information, contact the site monitor, Reuben Muir, at 0274-727-013.

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Mount Cargill

This paragliding site in New Zealand is situated at an elevation of 671 meters and is considered a medium difficulty location. It is rarely used, and the takeoff area is short. The site is accessible by car and offers thermal soaring with winds exceeding 10 knots. The landing zone is approximately 3 kilometers away at a location known as the "silver shed." Flying at this site requires prior arrangement with local pilots for assistance. If you need help coordinating your visit, you can contact Sterling Meyer at sterling.meyer@stonebow.otago.ac.nz. To reach the site, head to Dunedin, often referred to as the 'Edinburgh of the South.' This charming Victorian city is located on New Zealand's South Island, directly on Highway No. 1, south of Christchurch. From Dunedin, follow the roads leading up to the mountain peak. For a visual overview, you can watch this video: [YouTube Link](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iEMO89vvE2s).

Sandymount Otago Peninsular

Located in Dunedin, New Zealand, this paragliding site offers a moderate experience for pilots. With an elevation of 179 meters, it is regularly used for soaring and some thermalling. The site is known for its scenic views and provides easy takeoff and landing options, both below and at the top. There are multiple takeoff points available, making it versatile for different wind conditions. It is advisable to contact local pilots or clubs before flying to get the latest information and ensure safety. For more details, you can visit local paragliding clubs or forums specific to Dunedin.

Hamilton's Gap

Hamilton's Gap is situated near the top of the Manukau South Head. To reach it, continue past Matakawau towards the Manukau Heads lighthouse and take the next left onto Hamilton Road. Launch points are available on both sides of the gap, with the more favorable spot being to the right, just past the toilet block. This site is often flyable in light wind conditions when Karioitahi is not. Landing is on the beach. The optimal wind direction for this site is South West. The club operates a weather station at Karioitahi, which is near this site. You can check the weather data at [Holfuy Weather Station](https://holfuy.com/en/data/213). There are no restrictions or cautions for this site. However, it is located within controlled airspace (CTA/C) with a height restriction of 1500 feet above sea level. Access conditions require contacting the site monitor, as the farmer who owns the land on the left side of the gap does not permit unauthorized access. For access, please contact the site monitor, Reuben Muir, at 0274-727-013. The site radio channel is Channel 20 - 476.900MHz. For more detailed information, visit [Cloudbase Hamilton's Gap](https://www.cloudbase.org.nz/site-guide/flying-site-hamiltons-gap).

Pouto Point Lighthouse

This site in New Zealand is not officially recognized but is known for soaring and casual flying. The height range is from 0 to 70 meters. The site record is 2.0 km. It is located approximately 60 km south of Baylys Beach.

Karioitahi A Kario North

Karioitahi Beach is one of New Zealand's premier coastal paragliding sites, offering a 35-kilometer soarable ridge from the Waikato River in the south to the Manukau Heads in the north. Located on the West Coast, it's about an hour's drive from downtown Auckland. To get there, take the Southern Motorway, exit at Drury, follow signs to Waiuku, and then to Karioitahi where the road ends at the beach. There are five launch sites: 1. The 'High Site' or 'The Main Cliff,' 300 meters north of the access road, is the primary site for paragliders, especially when the wind is light. 2. The dunes at the end of the car park by the lifesavers building are used only in strong winds by a few pilots. 3. The lawn of the restaurant above the Surf Life Saving Club is occasionally used by paragliders but also serves as a venue for restaurant functions. 4. The 'Club Launch' for hang gliders is 500 meters south of the restaurant and Surf Lifesaving Club. This site is no longer used for paragliding training. 5. The top take-off site on the cliff can be accessed by walking from the Surf Lifesaving Club or via a private road from beyond the restaurant. This is the main hang gliding launch site. Landing is on the beach, but be cautious of beach traffic, especially during summer and high tide. There is a 'no landing zone' extending roughly 50 meters north and south of the grassy de-rigging area in front of the bottom car park. Avoid landing close to this area when the beach is crowded. Weather and wind direction are crucial for a safe flight. The ideal wind direction ranges from South-South-West (SSW) to West-North-West (WNW). Live weather data and a webcam are available at http://www.kariaotahi.mobi/. Note that the wind speed at launch is likely to be about 5 km/hr higher than indicated due to the inland location of the weather station. For more detailed weather data, visit https://holfuy.com/en/data/213. Site radio channels are important for communication. Schools typically use Channels 10 and 26, while other pilots use Channel 20 (476.900MHz). There are specific restrictions for both hang gliding and paragliding. Hang gliders need to be at least novice level, with intermediate and cliff launch ratings required for certain sites. Paragliders need to be PG2 certified, with an additional 30 hours required for cliff launches at Site C. Caution is advised when driving on the beach, especially outside of low tide periods. The mid-tide area can be treacherous, and only 4WD vehicles should be used. Be mindful of the 10 km per hour speed restriction when passing through the chalet area. The site lessee is the operator of Castaway's Restaurant. Access to the top take-off past the holiday homes is restricted, and there is a combination lock on the access road. Contact club members or the AHGPC Facebook group for the combination. For any site-related queries, contact site monitor John Burton at 09 5283362. Notable achievements at this site include hang glider pilot Anton Lawrence crossing the Manukau entrance and landing at Whatipu, and paraglider pilots Peter Creighton and Jeff Ripley flying over the back of Karioitahi and landing at Waiuku.

Baylys Beach

Baylys Beach, New Zealand, offers a unique paragliding experience with its medium-height dunes ranging from 30 to 150 meters. The site is occasionally used but holds good potential for soaring and some cross-country (XC) flights, especially if the wind is straight. This location is best suited for experienced pilots, and it's highly recommended to consult with local pilots before attempting to fly here to ensure safety and optimal conditions. Takeoff can be done from either below or the top of the dunes, but it's crucial to avoid damaging the dunes. The site record for this location is 4.8 km. Approximately 25 km north or south of Baylys Beach, the dunes maintain their height, but some large gaps require up to 200 meters of altitude to cross. From Baylys Beach, you can head approximately 25 km northwest to Aranga Beach. However, there is a 1.5 km wide valley that no one has successfully crossed to reach Maunganui Bluff. In the opposite direction, with favorable conditions, it is possible to top-start at the Bluff and reach Baylys Beach. For more information and local guidance, you can connect with the Northland Hang Gliding and Paragliding Club.

Whangaparaoa Lookout Ridge

Whangaparaoa Lookout Ridge is located at the end of Whangaparaoa Peninsula, primarily within Shakespeare Regional Park. To reach this site, take State Highway 1 to just south of Orewa, then turn right and head east following the signposts for Shakespeare Regional Park. The launch site is situated on the crest of the hill overlooking Te Haruhi Bay, near the gate on the left side. The elevation is approximately 180 feet above sea level. You can park near the picture frame and walk up to the ridge towards the lookout. Landing options include paddocks near the beach. Be cautious of trees and people in the area. The optimal wind direction for this site is from the southeast. For communication, use Site Radio Channel 20 at 476.900MHz. Paragliding at this site requires a PG2 rating. Be aware of power lines to the right of your glide path and landing area. Pohutukawa trees at the end of the landing area can cause turbulence. The flight ceiling is 2,500 feet above sea level. For site monitoring, contact Thomas Mann at 021 022 75 104 or 09 428 7635. For more information, visit [Whangaparaoa Lookout Ridge](https://www.cloudbase.org.nz/site-guide/flying-site-whangaparaoa-lookout-ridge).

Coronet Summit

Coronet Peak, located in New Zealand, offers a medium-difficult paragliding experience with an elevation of 1626 meters. This site is frequently used and provides multiple takeoff options, making it suitable for good cross-country (XC) flights. The main launch direction is southeast, but if there's a northerly wind, you must launch from the summit. Access to the takeoff points can be achieved via gondola, ski tour, hike, or vol bivouac. This site is recommended for experienced pilots only due to its complexity. Pilots often gather at 'The Flight Park' landing field on the north side of Malaghans Road towards Arrowtown. Here, you can get a lift to the takeoff points and receive briefings from local pilots about flying conditions. There are strict airspace restrictions due to the proximity to Queenstown Airport. The airspace, designated G755, is a General Aviation area within the Queenstown Tower Control Zone, with a ceiling of 5500 feet AMSL. The summit of Coronet Peak is 1650 meters (5400 feet), so it's crucial to stay within these limits. The western boundary is defined by the hairpins on the Coronet access road. Do not fly south of Malaghans Road or further east than the forestry block ridge. Coronet Peak is highly flyable due to its mountain protection. Weather conditions can be checked via 'Holfuy – New Zealand' which has four weather stations for this site, including one at the Flight Park landing area. Additionally, the Metservice website provides weather updates for the Southern Lakes region. In summer, the site tends to have a southwest wind, while in winter, it shifts to the north. Be cautious of the NorWester, which can switch quickly and violently, especially in summer. Windsocks on the ridgeline are good indicators of changing conditions. Dust devils on takeoff are common and indicate lee-side thermals developing in the predominant upper NW. The Southerly wind is a mix of high-level southerly flow and the sea-breeze effect from Lake Wakatipu. It can come in hard and fast, so keep an eye on wind indicators on the lake to avoid being caught out. If the southerly remains light, Coronet Peak offers a magical flying experience. However, if the southerly flow and sea-breeze mix, conditions can become very strong and challenging. Top-landing at Coronet Peak is possible but should be done with caution, especially in strong southerlies. The airport and Skyline-Gondola will blow out first in a southerly. Primary takeoffs are astro-turfed at Carpark #4 (elevation: 1135m / 3720ft) and Rocky Gully (elevation: 1180m / 3870ft). Carpark #4 is not suitable for speed wings due to the glide required to reach the Flight Park landing field. Rocky Gully also requires caution and awareness of the required glide to the Flight Park, which is 3 kilometers away. In winter, the primary takeoff areas are at the top of the Main M1 chairlift and the top of the Greengates chairlift. A special chairlift certification is required to use these in winter. The ski-field is very sensitive to low flying within its boundaries. For more information, visit: [Coronet Peak Paragliding](https://southernclub.co.nz/coronet-peak/)

Pouto Point

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Join two people as they explore the skies above Lighthouse Point, witnessing the untouched beauty of golden beaches and crystal-clear waters below. Get ready to be captivated by the serenity of this secluded paradise, where adventure merges with tranquility. A unique experience awaits you as we soar above this breathtaking scenery. 

Rocky Mountain Lake Wanaka

At an elevation of 762 meters, this site is regularly used and offers pleasant local soaring and thermalling opportunities. It's a great spot for pilots looking to enjoy consistent flights in a scenic environment.

Muriwai - Southern private ramp Janies

This site offers a unique coastal soaring experience but is located on private property at the end of Ngatira Rd. It is not open to the public, and access is restricted to members of the Auckland Hang Gliding and Paragliding Club. Flights from this site require you to achieve enough height to reach Muriwai Beach, as there is no bottom landing available. This is particularly important for hang gliders. The ideal wind direction for this site is South West. The club operates a weather station at Muriwai to help you plan your flights. Mandatory notices and access conditions must be followed strictly. The site radio channel is Channel 20 - 476.900MHz. Restrictions for flying at this site include: - Hang Gliding: Advanced level required. - Paragliding: PG2 with at least 60 hours of flight time. There have been concerns from a local resident about pilots overflying their property. Please avoid flying over the indicated property and treat the area in front of it as a transit zone, gaining height before and not lingering. The airspace restrictions are the same as for all sites at Muriwai. The site is located in VFR Transit Lane T156 with a height ceiling of 2000 feet A.S.L. Beyond the high water mark, the airspace is Class D Controlled Airspace and MBZ. Access to the site is controlled due to past issues with public access. The new owners have installed security gates and provided an access code for club members. The access code is available from the site monitor rather than being published online. If you encounter the owners on the property, please introduce yourself. For any queries, contact Tony Seaman at 0274 933 023. For more detailed information, visit: - [Auckland Hang Gliding and Paragliding Club](https://www.cloudbase.org.nz/site-guide/flying-site-muriwai-southern-private) - [Parawait Muriwai Janies](https://parawait.org/sites/muriwai-janies/)

Roys Peak

In the Otago region of New Zealand, you'll find a paragliding site with takeoff altitudes ranging from 700 to 1435 meters. This site offers a variety of takeoff options within a 2 km radius, making it a versatile choice for pilots. One of the medium-height takeoff points is particularly good, and for those looking for a more relaxed ascent, a helicopter option is available. The site is well-suited for hike and fly, thermalling, soaring, and offers excellent cross-country (XC) potential. The region is known for its accessibility and is frequently used by a diverse group of pilots. The views are among the best, with tussock slopes that are ideal for launching and wide-open valleys that provide ample landing opportunities. The site has recently gained recognition as a prime starting point for cross-country flights, boasting the triangle record and some of the highest scoring flights in New Zealand. One recommended route is the waterfall route, which starts a couple of kilometers closer to Wanaka than the popular zig-zag route. Roy’s Peak is a great low-risk hike and fly option. As you ascend in the morning sun, you can feel the thermals, and there are numerous face landing opportunities if needed. You can glide to Treble Cone, and if you don't make it, you'll land at the paddock of the most popular cross-country site in the country. Access to the site is straightforward, with a ten-minute drive on a sealed public road from Wanaka. The walking track is open to the public, and the hike can take anywhere from 45 minutes to three hours, depending on your chosen launch point. The launch area has some prickles lower down but is mostly covered in good tussock slopes. Landing options are plentiful, with slope landings, acreage lots, and farms below, as well as the wide-open Matukituki Valley to the west. Weather conditions can vary, so it's advisable to consult with local pilots in Wanaka. Generally, the area experiences dry conditions typical of central Otago. For more detailed weather information, check the Southern Lakes forecast. For more information, you can visit: - [Wanaka Hike & Fly](https://wanakahikefly.nz/edition2021/) - [Ten Hike and Fly Trips in the South of New Zealand](https://sharemyjoys.wordpress.com/features/ten-hike-and-fly-trips-in-the-south-of-new-zealand/) The main hazards in the Wanaka area include: 1. TC Launch and landing (bomb out) areas. 2. Avoid landing in paddocks with fawning deer unless in an emergency. 3. Glendhu Bay official landing areas are generally acceptable for landing, but follow the usual code of practice. For competition updates and more detailed information, you can refer to the event blogs and preparation notes available on the respective websites.

Bridge's Hill

Bridge's Hill is a South East facing paragliding site with a challenging yet rewarding launch. Located 8 kilometers west of Dill's Hill on West Coast Rd, the site is accessible via State Highway 16 past Kaukapakapa. Turn right onto West Coast Rd and drive 2 kilometers to the old fire station building; if you reach the new fire station, you've gone too far. The takeoff is at 900 feet above sea level, with a narrow launch area surrounded by trees, making it a difficult but exhilarating experience. The site is occasionally used and has a record inland flight of 39.2 km. Landing areas are available on the flats below, but be cautious of temporary electric fences. When flying low in the valley, be aware of potential sea breezes that can cause wind changes to the South West, resulting in turbulence. Weather and wind direction are crucial, with the site best suited for South East winds. Ensure wind direction is straight up the cut between trees and check wind streamers. The site operates on Radio Channel 20 - 476.900MHz. Paragliding here requires a PG 2 rating with at least 60 hours of flight experience. Hang gliding is restricted to advanced pilots. Due to the growth of pine trees in front of the top takeoff, extreme caution is required. The site is near the edge of controlled airspace (CTA) within GAA NZG 151, with a height restriction of 3,500 feet above sea level immediately above launch, increasing to 4,500 feet after passing a line to the north between Five Fingers and Dill's Hill. Access conditions include calling at the farmhouse before proceeding. The site owners, Mark and Poppy Keskic, are very friendly. Vehicles can be driven up only in very dry conditions, requiring a 4-wheel drive with good muffler clearance. Access is via the cattle race, and driving during milking time around 4 pm is not advised. For more information, visit: - [Cloudbase NZ](https://www.cloudbase.org.nz/site-guide/flying-site-bridges-hill) - [Parawait](https://parawait.org/sites/bridges/) Site monitor: Jeff Ripley, contact at 027 288 8818. Notable achievement: In February 1994, hang glider pilot Ian Clark flew 143 km to Kaikohe in 5 hours, reaching 5,700 feet and setting a new NZ cross-country record. Watch a video of the site: [YouTube](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=euvOr5MptPM)

Bethell's Beach

Bethell's Beach is situated on Auckland's West Coast, nestled between Piha and Muriwai Beaches. To reach it, take Bethell's Road from Swanson on the northern end of the Waitakere Ranges. Upon arrival at Bethell's Beach, head north by climbing the first headland around to O'Neill Bay. Launch points are available either from the center of the bay or the top of the ridge. For similar wind directions and conditions, there are more user-friendly sites available. This site is now infrequently flown. Landing is on the beach. Weather updates can be checked at [Holfuy Weather Station](https://holfuy.com/en/weather/168/). Before flying, it is mandatory to contact the landowner. Refer to the access conditions for more details. The site radio channel is Channel 20 - 476.900MHz. Paragliding restrictions require a PG2 rating plus 60 hours of flight experience. Be cautious of potential turbulence from the headland to the south. Any wind change or strengthening from the south can eliminate safe landing options. This site is located in VFR Transit Lane T156 with a flight ceiling of 1500 feet A.S.L. Access conditions require checking with the farmer who owns the property due to concerns about disturbing livestock. Contact the site monitor, Alan Hills, at 09 570 5759 or 027 398 2345 before flying. For more information, visit [Cloudbase](https://www.cloudbase.org.nz/site-guide/flying-site-bethells).