Paragliding: Beyond the Thrills, A Community in the Sky

Paragliding often conjures images of adrenaline junkies soaring through the skies, but the reality is much different for many in this vibrant community. On a sunny spring day at Christchurch’s Port Hills, an enthusiastic group of paragliders took to the air, showcasing not just their skills, but the strong bonds formed within this unique sport.

The launch area on Summit Rd buzzed with activity as paragliders launched from the hills, their vibrant wings painting the sky in shades of red, orange, pink, and turquoise. With ideal wind conditions, the atmosphere was electric, filled with cheers from spectators watching the gliders gracefully navigate the air.

Ryan Scarlett, owner of Christchurch Paragliding, was busy preparing for a special tandem flight. His passenger, Ian Ruder, a tourist from the United States, was about to embark on his first paragliding experience. After being confined to a wheelchair for 27 years due to a car accident, Ruder’s excitement was palpable. As they soared into the sky, the crowd erupted in applause, and Ruder’s initial apprehension transformed into pure joy. “You just feel like you’re flying up there,” he remarked after landing, his face lit up with a broad smile.

Scarlett, who began paragliding in 2014 after seeing others glide during a hike in Europe, has since explored the sport globally. He considers Taylors Mistake his favorite flying spot, noting, “Your mind can wander. You don’t have to think about other issues in your life. Flying is a form of meditation.” The paragliding community in Christchurch includes around 300 individuals, ranging from retirees to young enthusiasts. Scarlett often takes his three-year-old son, Wilfred, on flights, demonstrating that paragliding is accessible to all ages and fitness levels.

The presence of women in the sport remains limited, as revealed by Jessica Schofield, one of the few female pilots at the launch site that day. The 29-year-old local started paragliding after choosing lessons over tandem skydiving. After six months of training, she now feels at home in the air, enjoying the breathtaking views. Schofield expressed her desire to see more women join the sport, stating, “I really want there to be more women.”

Another prominent figure in the Christchurch paragliding scene is Ben Kellett, who has flown in various countries, including the Himalayas and Europe. Originally from the United Kingdom, Kellett moved to Queenstown in 2011 for snowboarding. A spontaneous decision to switch from a tandem flight to lessons ignited his passion for paragliding. Having amassed over 233,000 followers on Instagram, Kellett’s most popular video, featuring him flying 200 kilometres over the Himalayas, garnered 1.8 million views.

Kellett, who specializes in endurance paragliding, highlighted the mental demands of the sport, likening it to chess. “You’ve got to be constantly making strategic decisions,” he explained. His adventures in New Zealand hold a special place in his heart, allowing for remote exploration without straying far from civilization.

Despite the thrill, paragliding carries inherent risks, leading to significant media coverage of accidents in recent years. In February 2024, a woman sustained severe injuries, including a broken back and pelvis, after a crash in the Port Hills. Another incident at Taylors Mistake saw a paraglider land in the sea, resulting in serious injuries. According to ACC statistics, there were 165 active claims related to paragliding, amounting to over $4 million in costs in 2025. In comparison, mountain biking and rugby union claims significantly exceeded this amount, suggesting that while serious accidents can occur, the sport’s overall risk is manageable.

Scarlett emphasized the paragliding community’s unity, stating that they rally around each other in times of crisis. Kellett echoed this sentiment, defending the sport against misconceptions. He stated, “The perception of us is that we’re these crazy daredevil lunatics… it’s really not the case.” The paragliding community comprises individuals from diverse backgrounds, united by their shared love for flying.

Ultimately, whether they are soaring above stunning landscapes or bonding on the ground, members of Christchurch’s paragliding community cherish the freedom that comes with their sport. As Scarlett, Schofield, and Kellett all affirm, it is this sense of liberation that keeps them coming back to the skies.