NZONESkyDive Queenstown
Seven years ago my brother was in New Zealand. He jumped out of a plane. He went and did a bungy jump, or several. And did other silly, money munching, adrenaline pumping activities. There was no way I wasn't going to have a go, too.With three days off ahead of me, on Tuesday I popped into the shop on my way home and booked in for the sunniest day of the three. Locals are very lucky to have 50% off the 15,000ft jump to use before the end of June; I wasn't going to miss out. Even if it means I live off bowls of oats for the next week.
Yesterday, promptly at 10am, I signed my life away and chose how to record the event. There are a few options, and I went for the Freefall photographs and video package. Having parapented a few times now (thank you, Rick!), I do have footage of parapenting and landing, so opted for someone to dive with me and record my freefall screams and giggles from afar.A short drive up to the site and we were met by hosts who explained what was to happen over the next few hours. After a short wait, we soon kitted up, were introduced to the person who would have our life in their hands, and the person who would record the fall. I am blaming the adrenaline and nerves, but their names have completely vanished from my memory – sorry!Instructions were given for the technicalities of the fall before we clambered into the plane, like sardines, nice 'n' cosy, to climb up to 15,000ft. The flight was stunning. FYI – The Remarkables looks in great condition! I kept thinking of my mother saying 'take deep breaths, keep breathing' and tried to just focus on the instructions and what I had to do."Put your helmet on." Oh gawd."Put your goggles on." Ah cr*ap. *nervous giggle*"Okay?" As I'll ever be.Suddenly my feet were outside the plane.Banana shape. Banana shape. Feet back. Head back. Hips forward.Waaaaaahhhhh!! 
My stomach never flipped as I expected it to, but the feeling of just plummeting was insane. I felt a tap on my shoulder. And again. And again. Oh yeah I can let go of my harness now!Ew! Is that dribble on my face?
Honestly, the craziest thing I have ever done. I loved every minute of it.
I wish I could do it again to appreciate it all the more. It was over in a flash and we were soon back on earth.The team at NZONE (despite the jokes...honestly, you must be bored of them?!) were brilliant, and not once did I feel unsafe at all. Despite jumping roughly 10 times a day, their enthusiasm for each new jumper didn't falter. A particular thank you to the two freefallers who looked after me - it was awesome!Here's the video clip. Makes me cringe a little. Oh, and I do love my friends and family for the record.[wpvideo ojeXJfK9]