9 extreme sports you can brave through in New Zealand

When Aslan, Frodo Baggins and Bilbo Baggins scamper across New Zealand's dramatic landscapes in their million-dollar blockbusters, you know nothing screams adventure more than the land of the Kiwis.

New Zealand's mountainous terrain and proximity to a smattering of islands makes it a prime destination for adventure seekers.

Tourism New Zealand has compiled nine extreme sports you can get up to, if you dare.

1. Skydive

If you're facing time constraints, skydiving is the best way to see everything at once. It is also the most effortless extreme sport you'll ever have to go through - if you choose a tandem dive of course. The popular dropzones at Glenorchy brings you right into the film locations of the Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit trilogies.

See here for more options.

2. Heli-skiing

Forget skylifts or chairlifts. Shred down the Southern Alps in style by dropping off a helicopter on the top of the mountains.

3. Ride a jet-boat

Speed through the icy rapids near Lake Taupo's thundering Huka Falls on a jet-boat. You can even opt for a ride through the canyons. There's strength and courage in unity, so as long as your pals don't back out, you'll be totally fine.

4. Bungy-jumping

Take a leap of faith on a bungy at the original Kawarau Bungy site, or the highest at the top of the Nevis. If you feel more comfortable in a cityscape, there's even a jump platform at the Auckland Harbour Bridge.

5. Black Water Rafting

Suit up and explore Waitomo's limestone caves by abseiling, crawling and tubing through the caverns. The subterranean labyrinth is also home to glowworms, which illuminate the dark recesses of the deep.

6. Scuba Diving

The underwater paradise of Poor Knights Islands marine reserve is a must-go for divers. French undersea explorer Jacques Cousteau rated the Poor Knights as one of the world's top 10 dive sites.

7. Roll in an Ogo

If you're tired of running up and down New Zealand's slopes, simply strap yourself in a plastic ball and roll down the hill. The transparent ball can reach speeds of up to 50km/h over land and water.

8. Mountain-biking

New Zealand has many scenic driving routes and even more panoramic cycling trails. There's a trail for every degree of difficult, from country idylls to multi-day alpine challenges.

9. Kayaking

Go back to basics with a kayak. Getaways like Abel Tasman National Park, Marlborough Sounds and even the imposing bodies of the fjords, make the country a haven for water activities.

debwong@sph.com.sg