43m Bungy, World's First

Overview

This is the jump that started it. The Kawarau Bridge, operated by AJ Hackett Bungy New Zealand, was the world's first commercial bungy site, and you can leap 43 metres from it, free falling above the glacier-fed Kawarau River. The whole thing wraps up quickly if you drive yourself, at about 1.5 hours, while taking the bus from Queenstown stretches the outing to around 2.5 hours.

The process is simple. Check in at the Kawarau Bungy Centre, then shuffle out onto the bridge platform where the crew talks you through the jump and runs through their checks before you go over the edge. You can jump solo or tandem, and you can choose to stop just above the water or go for the full dunk into the river below.

It suits first-timers and nervous jumpers especially, since several travellers describe the staff as patient and reassuring, and it works for families too, with jumpers as young as 10 allowed. The water-touch option and the history of the place give it its own pull.

Itinerary

1. Check inArrive at the Kawarau Bungy Centre at the Kawarau Bridge, or start from central Queenstown if using the free transfer.
2. Travel to the bridgeSelf-drive takes about 1.5 hours in total for the experience; the Bungy Bus from central Queenstown makes it about 2.5 hours.
3. Bridge briefingThe crew explains how the jump works and runs through their safety checks with you.
4. The jumpShuffle out onto the edge of the bridge and leap 43 metres, solo or tandem, stopping just above the water or dipping into it.
5. Photos and videoYour photos and video are included and, according to reviewers, are emailed through shortly after the jump.

Common Questions