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AJ Hackett Bungy Kawarau Bridge Bungy

🌉 AJ Hackett Kawarau Bridge Bungy – The World’s First Commercial Bungy Jump



The AJ Hackett Kawarau Bridge Bungy is one of New Zealand’s most iconic adventure experiences and the birthplace of commercial bungy jumping. Located just outside Queenstown, this legendary site opened in 1988 and is recognized as the world’s first commercial bungy operation, helping establish New Zealand as a global adventure tourism destination.

Set above the stunning turquoise waters of the Kawarau River, the jump combines adrenaline, history, and spectacular scenery into one unforgettable experience.


📍 Location



  • 📍 Located at Kawarau Gorge, approximately 20 minutes from Queenstown

  • 🌉 Historic suspension bridge spanning the Kawarau River

  • 🏔️ Surrounded by dramatic cliffs, vineyards, and Otago landscapes

  • 🚗 Easily accessible via the Queenstown–Cromwell road

The setting itself is one of the most scenic adventure locations in New Zealand.


🪂 The Bungy Jump


📏 Jump Height

  • 🌉 43 metres (141 feet) above the Kawarau River

  • 🎯 Suitable for first-time jumpers and experienced thrill-seekers

  • 🌊 Unique option to touch or partially immerse in the river below

Unlike higher jumps that focus purely on height, Kawarau delivers a perfect balance of thrill, confidence, and enjoyment.


🚀 The Experience

The adventure begins with:

  • Registration and safety briefing

  • Professional harness fitting

  • Weight and equipment checks

  • Walk onto the historic bridge jump platform

As you stand above the river:

  • Views stretch through the Kawarau Gorge

  • Turquoise water flows beneath you

  • The countdown begins

Then comes the leap:

  • Seconds of pure freefall

  • Bungy cord stretch and rebound

  • Spectacular views during the bounce

  • Recovery by boat or retrieval system

Many jumpers describe the moment as both exhilarating and surprisingly peaceful.


🌊 Water Touch Option



One of the most famous features of Kawarau Bungy is the:


💦 Water Touch Experience

Jumpers can choose:

  • Dry jump

  • Finger-touch the river

  • Full upper-body water dip (conditions permitting)

This makes the experience even more memorable and unique compared with many other bungy sites worldwide.


🌉 Historic Significance


🌍 Birthplace of Commercial Bungy

The Kawarau Bridge site is internationally famous because:

  • Opened in 1988

  • Created by A J Hackett

  • First permanent commercial bungy site in the world

  • Inspired the global bungy industry

For many adventure travelers, jumping here is considered a pilgrimage to the birthplace of modern bungy jumping.


👀 Spectator Experience



Even non-jumpers can enjoy the attraction.

Facilities include:

  • Viewing decks

  • Historic displays

  • Observation platforms

  • Café and refreshments

  • Professional photo and video services

Friends and family get excellent views of every jump.


📸 Photos & Videos

Professional media packages are available, including:

  • High-resolution action photos

  • Multi-angle videos

  • Bridge and river perspectives

  • Social-media-ready clips

The turquoise river backdrop creates some of the most recognizable adventure photos in New Zealand.


🌄 Scenic Highlights

The location offers outstanding views of:

  • Kawarau Gorge

  • Kawarau River

  • Central Otago landscapes

  • Vineyards and rocky cliffs

  • Historic suspension bridge architecture

Many visitors come for the scenery even if they do not jump.


⭐ Why This Bungy Is Special

  • 🌍 World's first commercial bungy jump

  • 🌉 Historic adventure tourism landmark

  • 📏 43-metre jump suitable for most people

  • 💦 Famous water-touch option

  • 🏔️ Spectacular gorge setting

  • 📸 Excellent photography opportunities

  • 🎖️ Operated by the pioneers of bungy jumping


👨‍👩‍👧 Who Should Do It?

  • First-time bungy jumpers

  • Adventure enthusiasts

  • Bucket-list travelers

  • Couples seeking an unforgettable experience

  • Fans of extreme sports history

  • Visitors to Queenstown


⚠️ Important Notes

  • Minimum age and weight restrictions apply

  • Weather conditions may affect operations

  • Secure footwear recommended

  • Advance booking is highly recommended

  • Professional safety checks are conducted before every jump


✨ Simple Summary

The AJ Hackett Kawarau Bridge Bungy is the world’s first commercial bungy jump, offering a thrilling 43-metre leap above the turquoise Kawarau River. Combining adventure, history, spectacular scenery, and the famous water-touch option, it remains one of New Zealand’s most iconic and unforgettable experiences.

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