Photo: Steve & Jem Copley / CC BY-SA 2.0
Leap into the void at the world's first commercial bungee site, where the original 43-metre jump off the historic Kawarau Bridge has been thrilling adrenaline seekers since 1988. Suspended over the churning turquoise waters of the Kawarau River, this iconic experience is a rite of passage for anyone visiting Queenstown. Even if you're not jumping, the spectator platform offers a front-row seat to watch others take the plunge, surrounded by dramatic canyon walls and the roar of the river below.
Highlights & What to See
- Take the plunge – Experience the original bungee jump that started it all, with the option to touch the water (or just dip your head) on the way down.
- Watch from the bridge – The viewing platform provides excellent photo ops and a vicarious thrill as you see jumpers launch from the historic 1880s bridge.
- Visit the Kawarau Bungy Centre – Grab a coffee or snack at the on-site café, and browse memorabilia celebrating the history of bungee jumping.
- Combine with other activities – The site also offers the Kawarau Jet boat ride and the Zipride, a high-speed zip line across the river.
- Nearby wineries – The Gibbston Valley wine region is just minutes away, perfect for a post-jump wine tasting.
Suggested Time to Spend
Allow about 1–2 hours for the bungee jump itself, including check-in, briefing, and the jump. If you're just watching, 30 minutes is enough. Combine it with a half-day itinerary that includes nearby wineries or a visit to Arrowtown for a full afternoon out from Queenstown.
Nearby Areas Worth Combining
- Queenstown – The adventure capital of New Zealand, a 25-minute drive away, offering endless dining, shopping, and activities.
- Arrowtown – A charming gold-rush town with historic streets, boutique shops, and beautiful autumn colours.
- Gibbston Valley – Renowned wine region with cellar doors and scenic vineyards, just a 5-minute drive from the bridge.
- Lake Wakatipu – Stunning lake with scenic cruises and the famous steamship TSS Earnslaw.
- Glenorchy – Gateway to the Routeburn Track and filming location for The Lord of the Rings, about 45 minutes from Queenstown.
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
- Queenstown — Bernard Spragg. NZ from Christchurch, New Zealand / CC0
- Arrowtown — Bgabel / CC BY-SA 3.0
- 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
- Glenorchy — Pseudopanax at English Wikipedia / Public domain
- Shotover Jet — Alex Proimos from Sydney, Australia / CC BY 2.0
- Milford Sound — Maros M r a z ( Maros ) / CC BY-SA 3.0