35 Years of Gforce Paragliding: Flying High Since 1991

For more than three decades, Gforce Paragliding has been sharing the joy of flight above Queenstown, New Zealand’s iconic adventure capital. From the early days of pioneering tandem paragliding in the region, to becoming Queenstown’s most experienced and trusted paragliding operation, the passion for flying has always stayed at the heart of what we do. 2026 marks 35 years of Gforce Paragliding.

Where it all began

Gforce took off in 1991, long before paragliding became the globally recognised adventure activity it is today. Our founders were the first to introduce tandem paragliding to Queenstown, inspired by a simple idea:

Let people experience the freedom of flight, safely and spectacularly.

Those early years were full of innovation, exploration, and a growing community of pilots who loved pushing the sport forward.

The best seat in the sky

Today, we still operate from where we started, at the top of the Skyline Gondola. One of the most scenic take-offs in the world. Each year, thousands of guests join us to fly, soaring high above Queenstown.

It’s a view that never gets old — even after 35 years.

Experience matters

With decades of flight time in our logbooks, we’ve been able to develop industry-leading safety practices and training standards. Every pilot on our team is highly qualified, internationally certified, and deeply passionate about flying.

We operate with a simple promise:
You’re flying with the best in the business.

A family of flyers

One of the things we’re most proud of is our team. Many of our pilots have flown with us for years — some for decades — building a strong culture of professionalism, trust, and fun. We love seeing nervous smiles turn into pure joy the moment our passengers take off.

That connection is why so many guests return to fly again — or bring their friends and family to share the magic.

Always evolving

Adventure tourism has changed dramatically over the past 35 years, and so have we. From upgraded wings and harnesses to digital photography and video packages, we’re constantly investing in new technology, training, and safety systems.

What hasn’t changed?
Our love for flight — and for Queenstown.

Looking ahead

As we celebrate this milestone, we’re excited for what’s still to come. New experiences. New pilots. New generations of flyers discovering the joy of soaring.

35 years down, Many more to come.