Paragliding

KJet. With the sun sparkling off the lake, wind whistling past, and traveling way faster than you had imagined, this is good holiday fun. KJet takes you 42 km (27 miles) on Lake Wakatipu and down two rivers, the Kawarau and Shotover, with some 360 spins along the way. Boats leave from the Main Town Pier where there's also an interesting underwater observatory. Reservations recommended. Main Town Pier, Marine Parade, Queenstown, Otago. 03/442–6142; www.kjet.co.nz. From NZ$125.

Shotover Jet. Shotover Jet's famous red boats lead high-speed, heart-stopping rides in the Shotover River canyons; it's got exclusive rights to operate in these waters. The boat pirouettes within inches of canyon walls. The boats are based at the Shotover Jet Beach beneath the historic Edith Cavell Bridge, a 10-minute drive from Queenstown. If you don't have transport, a free shuttle makes frequent daily runs. Reservations are essential. Gorge Rd., over the Edith Cavell Bridge at Arthur's Point, Queenstown, Otago, 9300. 03/442–8570; 0800/746-868; www.shotoverjet.com. From NZ$135.