Nevis Bungy

Plummet 134 metres into the Nevis River valley on the highest bungy jump in New Zealand – and one of the highest in the world. The Nevis Bungy is the ultimate adrenaline rush for thrill-seekers visiting the South Island. Suspended in a tiny cable car over a vast gorge, you'll be strapped in and encouraged to leap from a platform that dangles over the void. The freefall lasts a heart-stopping 8.5 seconds before the cord catches and you bounce like a human yo-yo above the river far below. It's a rite of passage for anyone chasing extreme adventure in the Queenstown region, but it's actually located closer to Gibbston Valley, just off the road to Cromwell.

Highlights & What to See

• The jump itself: the sheer height and dramatic gorge setting make this the most intense bungy in NZ – you'll freefall past rock walls and over the turquoise Nevis River.
• The cable car ride: a thrilling journey in itself, suspended over the chasm as you're winched out to the jump platform.
• The Nevis Catapult: if you're still buzzing, try the neighbouring reverse bungy that launches you 150 metres across the gorge at 3 Gs.
• Gibbston Valley wine region: calm your nerves afterwards with a wine tasting at nearby cellar doors, just a short drive away.
• Kawarau Gorge: the historic Kawarau Suspension Bridge (home of the first commercial bungy) is only 20 minutes east and worth a photo stop.

Suggested Time to Spend

Allocate around 2–3 hours for the Nevis Bungy experience, including check-in, the scenic drive to the site (about 45 minutes from Queenstown's centre), the cable car ride, and the jump itself. If you're adding the Nevis Catapult, budget another 30 minutes. Most people book a morning or afternoon slot and combine it with a wine tour or a visit to Arrowtown on the same day. It's not something you can rush – savour the anticipation and the stunning views.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Queenstown – the adventure capital, 45 minutes away, with endless dining, shopping, and lakefront scenery.
• Arrowtown – a historic gold-mining town with charming streets, boutique shops, and walking trails along the Arrow River.
• Gibbston Valley – renowned for pinot noir and cheese; many vineyards offer tastings and cellar door lunches.
• Cromwell – a fruit-growing town on the shores of Lake Dunstan, known for its heritage precinct and stone fruit orchards.
• Wanaka – a scenic 1-hour drive over the Crown Range, offering lakefront walks, hiking, and the famous Wanaka Tree.

Please check official sources for current details.