iFly Queenstown enjoying successful first summer of operations

New Zealand’s first indoor iFLY skydiving attraction in Queenstown is enjoying a successful first summer.

Having joined Queenstown's suite of adventure attractions when it opened at the end of August, the attraction is welcoming guests to join the more than nine million flyer around the world who have experienced the adrenaline rush of tunnel flight in iFLY’s unique glass wind chamber, airborne in winds up to 270kph.

The $15 million tunnel structure with its 4.5-metre high glass flight chamber and wall-to-wall cushion of air has controllable speeds to suit adults and children and is operated by fully trained instructors, all experienced bodyflight athletes.

Approximately 3.6 metre in diameter with super-strong stainless steel mesh at flyers feet, iFLY has an exemplary safety record, making it an interactive adventure suitable for all ages, from children to grandparents.

iFLY Queenstown is a joint project between Sky Venture International, which manufactures iFLY wind tunnels, and local couple Emma and Gary Beyer. The Beyers have had a long association with the international skydiving community; Emma represented Great Britain and won the 2006 World Championships and Gary represented the USA and won the World Championships in 1999.

She explains “tunnel flight is one of the most blood-pumping and fast-growing sports in the world, with its own global leagues and events.

“Launching iFLY in New Zealand gives Kiwis a massive opportunity to jump on board with skydiving or tunnel flight as we now have a training facility here.

“Our hope is that we’ll develop a national bodyflight team and compete internationally. We know the sport will take off, literally.”

iFLY offers a progression programme for frequent flyers to hone their skills, through bulk-buying time in the flight chamber.

The adrenalin venture is located in a purpose-built building with an on site café and bar at 27 Brecon Street in central Queenstown.

For more information go to www.iflynz.co.nz

Images courtesy of iFLY Queenstown.