Overview
The Kawarau Bridge is the birthplace of commercial bungy jumping, where AJ Hackett and Henry van Asch pioneered the sport in 1988. Jumpers leap 43 metres from the historic suspension bridge into the turquoise Kawarau River gorge.
Highlights
- The Original Jump: A 43-metre freefall from New Zealand's most famous bridge, with the option to dip into the river below.
- Bungy Centre: A purpose-built facility with viewing platforms, a café, and the AJ Hackett Bungy museum documenting the sport's origins.
- Historic Bridge: The 1880 Kawarau Suspension Bridge itself is a Category I heritage structure, originally built for gold miners.
History
On 12 November 1988, AJ Hackett made the first commercial bungy jump from this bridge, launching what became a global adventure tourism phenomenon. The bridge was originally built in 1880 to connect goldfields on either side of the Kawarau River.
Visitor Tips
- Spectating: Watching is free — a viewing platform lets you see every jump without paying.
- Photo Package: Video and photo packages are sold separately — decide before jumping.
- Duration: 1.5–2 hours including transport from Queenstown.