Kawarau Gorge Bungy

Kawarau Gorge Bungy is the birthplace of commercial bungy jumping, where the first leap was made in 1988 from the historic Kawarau Bridge. Suspended 43 metres above the turquoise Kawarau River, this iconic spot offers an adrenaline rush with a backdrop of rugged schist cliffs and vineyards. Even if you're not jumping, the viewing platform provides a thrilling spectator experience, and the on-site café serves excellent coffee to steady your nerves.

Highlights & What to See

• Take the plunge – leap from the historic Kawarau Bridge, with options for a solo jump, tandem jump, or even a water touch (dunk your head in the river below).
• Watch the action – the free viewing platform offers front-row seats to see jumpers fly and bounce, with the dramatic gorge as a backdrop.
• Visit the AJ Hackett Bungy Centre – learn about the history of bungy and the local Māori legend that inspired it, with interactive exhibits and memorabilia.
• Combine with wineries – the Kawarau Gorge is at the heart of Central Otago wine country; nearby Gibbston Valley wineries offer tastings and cellar doors.

Suggested Time to Spend

Allow 1–2 hours for the bungy experience itself, including check-in, safety briefing, and the jump. If you're just watching, 30–45 minutes is plenty to see several jumps and soak in the scenery. For a full afternoon, combine with a wine-tasting tour in Gibbston Valley or a walk along the Kawarau River trail.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Queenstown – the adventure capital, 25 minutes drive, with endless activities from jet boating to mountain biking.
• Arrowtown – a charming historic gold-mining town with boutique shops and walking trails, 30 minutes away.
• Gibbston Valley – known as the 'Valley of the Vines', home to dozens of award-winning wineries and the Gibbston Valley Cheese shop.
• Lake Wakatipu – scenic drives and lakeside walks around New Zealand's third-largest lake, with views of The Remarkables mountain range.

Please check official sources for current details.