Photo: Spy007au ( talk ) / CC BY-SA 3.0
Queenstown is the birthplace of bungy jumping, and there's no better place to take the leap. The iconic Kawarau Bridge Bungy Centre offers a 43-metre plunge over the turquoise Kawarau River, the world's first commercial bungy site. For an even bigger thrill, the Nevis Bungy (134 metres) delivers one of the highest jumps in the Southern Hemisphere. Whether you're a first-timer or a seasoned jumper, the rush of freefalling against a backdrop of dramatic alpine scenery is unforgettable.
Highlights & What to See
- Kawarau Bridge Bungy – The original 43-metre jump from the historic bridge, where bungy began in 1988. You can even touch the river if you choose.
- Nevis Bungy – A 134-metre leap from a cable car suspended above a deep canyon, with a heart-stopping eight-second freefall.
- The Ledge Bungy – Located on Skyline Queenstown, this 47-metre jump launches you out over the lake and city, with a unique 'ledge' platform.
- Bungy Swing – Not a jump but a massive swing at Kawarau, where you soar in a giant arc across the river.
- AJ Hackett Bungy Centre – The hub for all jumps, with a museum, café, and viewing platform to watch jumpers.
Suggested Time to Spend
Allow half a day for a single jump, especially if you combine it with watching others and exploring the centre. The Kawarau site is 20 minutes from Arrowtown, so it's easy to fit in a morning or afternoon. For Nevis, budget a full half-day as transport and safety briefings take longer. Many visitors do one jump and spend the rest of the day enjoying Queenstown's other adventures.
Nearby Areas Worth Combining
- Arrowtown – A charming historic gold-mining town just a short drive away, perfect for a stroll and lunch.
- Gibbston Valley – Renowned for its vineyards and wine tasting, especially pinot noir, located near the Kawarau Bridge.
- Queenstown Hill – A rewarding hike with panoramic views of the lake and mountains, ideal for a post-jump activity.
- Lake Wakatipu – Take a scenic cruise or simply enjoy the lakeside views in Queenstown.
- Coronet Peak Ski Area – In winter, combine bungy with skiing or snowboarding; in summer, mountain biking trails are open.
Please check official sources for current details.
Note: opening hours, prices and booking requirements change often — please check official sources for current details.
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Image credits
- Arrowtown — Bgabel / CC BY-SA 3.0
- Queenstown — Bernard Spragg. NZ from Christchurch, New Zealand / CC0
- Gibbston Valley — Marek Ślusarczyk ( Tupungato ) Photo portfolio / CC BY 3.0
- Lake Wakatipu — Hagai Agmon-Snir حچاي اچمون-سنير חגי אגמון-שניר / CC BY-SA 4.0
- Coronet Peak — André Richard Chalmers / CC BY-SA 3.0
- Queenstown Hill — Andre Chalmers / CC BY-SA 3.0
- Nevis Bungy — Spy007au ( talk ) / CC BY-SA 3.0