Skydive Auckland Hosts the 2026 NZ Canopy Piloting Nationals

We had a fantastic weekend hosting the 2026 NZ Canopy Piloting Nationals at Skydive Auckland, run by the NZ Parachute Federation (NZPF). The competition brought together some of the best canopy pilots from across New Zealand and even Australia to compete and watch the action.

Canopy piloting is an advanced part of skydiving where pilots navigate their parachutes at high speeds through a course. Competitors are judged on distance, speed, and accuracy in open, freestyle, and intermediate categories. It is an exciting display of skill and precision.

Training days were held on 11 and 12 February, giving competitors the chance to practice on the competition pond, improve their flying skills, and get ready for the event. At the same time, judges worked to make sure scoring and systems were ready for the first competition rounds.

The competition took place on 13 and 14 February and ran very well despite some challenging weather. The event delivered high-level competition, great sportsmanship, and a fun atmosphere throughout.

Congratulations to the 2026 NZ Champions:

🥇 Matty Walker – 173.384

🥈 Jacob T Hooft – 142.820

🥉 Sam Burton – 136.815

A big shout out to our own Skydive Auckland Tandem Masters Jacob and Sam, who both performed amazingly, taking second and third place.

While the Nationals were happening, Skydive Auckland was also open for tandem skydives. Many locals and tourists took the chance to jump from 18,000 feet, strapped to our expert instructors, and experience the thrill of skydiving for themselves.

Thank you to all the judges, volunteers, competitors, and supporters who helped make this weekend a success. It was an exciting and memorable event for everyone involved, and we look forward to hosting more amazing skydiving events in the future.