About AJ Hackett Kawarau Bungy
The AJ Hackett Kawarau Bungy Centre in Queenstown’s Gibbston Valley is the famed **“World Home of Bungy”** – the site of the very first commercial bungy jump in 1988 (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ). Perched on an old 42m-high suspension bridge spanning the Kawarau River, it launched AJ Hackett (with co-founder Henry van Asch) into global adventure fame (www.ticketfairy.com ). Today the historic 1880s bridge (a Tohu Whenua heritage site) and the canyon beneath Guinness-green river are just as iconic – even appearing in the Lord of the Rings films (www.doc.govt.nz ). In short, this is no ordinary venue but a cornerstone of Queenstown’s identity as the “Adventure Capital” (www.ticketfairy.com ). Nearly half a million thrill-seekers visit each year (www.ticketfairy.com ) to leap from the 43m platform or simply soak in the legacy.
In 2004 AJ Hackett opened the purpose-built Bungy Centre on the cliffside, a $4.5M underground “dome” carefully tucked into the hillside (abl.co.nz ). Architects call it a “bold and intellectual” theatre of adventure (abl.co.nz ): visitors descend spiral ramps into a glass-fronted event hall (nicknamed the “bunker”), then emerge out onto broad timber decks overlooking the bridge and river (www.ticketfairy.com ). This subtle integration with the rugged landscape won regional Architecture Awards (www.ticketfairy.com ) (abl.co.nz ). AJ Hackett himself praises the centre as a “unique venue for once-in-a-lifetime events” (www.ticketfairy.com ). Despite modern upgrades, the Kawarau site remains very much the original bungy home – complete with a plaque marking AJ’s first legendary jump (www.ticketfairy.com ) and a mountain-view setting that still takes the breath away.
Events and Programming
Bungy jumping is the core “program” here – it operates daily by appointment, with dozens of jump slots each hour for individuals and small groups. But the Kawarau Bungy Centre also doubles as an unusual **event venue**. Promoters have turned it into a stage for DJ parties, music festivals and corporate events under the stars. In recent years even world-famous electronic acts have dropped by: UK techno legend Carl Cox headlined a sold-out dance party on site in Feb 2024 (www.bungy.co.nz ), and Finnish DJ Darude (of “Sandstorm” fame) brought a trance crowd alive with live bungy stunts alongside his set (www.bungy.co.nz ). Winter parties like *Snow Machine* have also touched down at Kawarau, featuring acts like Bag Raiders and Hermitude against the night-sky backdrop (www.bungy.co.nz ).
Local events have a creative bend: for example, the annual Queenstown Bike Festival kicked off with a **“Bike Bungy Jam”** here, where riders performed stunts off a spring-loaded ramp on the deck (www.bungy.co.nz ). Dressed-up themed parties also pop up – in June 2022 the Centre hosted a circus-themed “Rabbit Hole” event with acrobats and two dance stages for about 400 festival-goers. Other gatherings include charity bungy days, group teambuilding hops for companies, and seasonal Halloween raves (e.g. *No Trace* festivals with heavy lights and sound) (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ). The Centre’s built-in stage, projection screens and PA make it ideal for such nights: in 2024 a permanent truss and lighting rig was installed by TomTom Productions, enabling full concert-level audio systems and LED screens indoors (www.bungy.co.nz ). In practice, up to ~300 people can fit inside for theatre-style events (about 180 seated, 300 at a cocktail party (www.bungy.co.nz ) (www.ticketfairy.com )), with hundreds more on the decks outside under the stars.
Tickets and Booking
All bungy experiences here must be booked in advance through AJ Hackett’s official system (online or by phone) (www.ticketfairy.com ). There is **no walk-up box office** at the site, so it’s important to plan ahead. AJ Hackett advises reserving at least 48 hours before your jump time to lock in availability (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.bungy.co.nz ), especially on summer weekends or holiday periods. When booking you’ll pay a life-guarded deposit (credit/debit card; they add a card-processing fee).
As of 2023–2025, a **single Kawarau Bridge bungy** costs roughly NZ$320 for an adult, with discounted fares for students or youth (around NZ$280) (www.ticketfairy.com ). Add-ons like a photo/video package or a tandem option can be selected at checkout or on the day (photos/videos are delivered instantly to your phone) (www.bungy.co.nz ) (hk.trip.com ). The scenic 450m **Kawarau Zipride** (zipline) costs about NZ$50 per person (with a student rate around $40) (www.ticketfairy.com ). Tickets are non-transferable and non-refundable once booked (www.ticketfairy.com ), so be certain of your plans. (If the weather does force a closure, AJ Hackett will reschedule or refund your jump (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.bungy.co.nz ).)
When you arrive, check in at the indoor counter: you’ll sign a safety waiver and be weighed for harness gear. Children age 10 and above may jump (with an adult’s signed consent if under 15) (www.bungy.co.nz ); spectators of any age are welcome for free (www.ticketfairy.com ). There’s a minimum jumper weight of 35kg and a maximum of 235kg here (www.bungy.co.nz ). The only tandem bungy jumps in NZ are offered at Kawarau Bridge (and Auckland Harbour Bridge) (www.bungy.co.nz ) – two people can jump together provided their total weight stays under 235kg (www.bungy.co.nz ).
Seating and Layout
The Kawarau Bungy Centre is multi-level with both **outdoor and indoor** viewing areas. All bungy spectators stand on the timber decks outside; there are no fixed arena seats. The prime viewing spot is the **upper wooden deck above the river**, right at the bungy platform’s edge (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ). From there you can lean on the railing and watch jumpers sail off into the gorge below. A lower deck closer to the river does exist, but it’s down a flight of stairs and mostly reserved for staff or very curious photographers (www.ticketfairy.com ). (Note: if you attend an event, avoid standing behind sound equipment or too far back by the building, as the view and sound are best right at the waterside rail (www.ticketfairy.com ).)
Inside the Centre lies a glass-walled lounge and event hall built into the cliff. This upper room has a raised performance stage at one end and is essentially open-plan: tables and folding chairs are brought in for dinners or presentations, but otherwise it’s a big social space. For formal events it can accommodate about **220 people seated** or roughly 800 standing (“cocktail-style”) (www.ticketfairy.com ). The indoor area comes with its own permanent PA sound system and screen (www.ticketfairy.com ), and after 2024 the lighting and audio were significantly upgraded (there are now concert-level sound rigs, truss-mounted spotlights and LED screens for big events (www.bungy.co.nz )). However, note that ordinary bungy visitors do not have table seating – it’s mostly standing and walking room.
Getting There and Parking
The Kawarau Bungy Centre sits roadside along **State Highway 6** in the Gibbston Valley, between Queenstown and Cromwell (www.ticketfairy.com ). From downtown Queenstown it’s a roughly 23–25 km drive (about 25–30 minutes) via Arthurs Point and thanks to the highway it’s an easy, picturesque drive along the Kawarau Gorge (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.bungy.co.nz ). Travelers coming from Queenstown can take the local Bus Route 4 (the Arrowtown loop) which stops near the area (hk.trip.com ), but service is infrequent. Most visitors opt to drive or take taxis/rideshares. In fact, AJ Hackett runs a free “Bungy Bus” shuttle for jumpers between Queenstown and the bridge (www.bungy.co.nz ) – if booked, it will pick you up downtown and return you after your jump.
Parking at the Bungy Centre itself is ample and free. There is room for standard vehicles and even space for tour coaches – AJ Hackett notes “free coach parking” on-site (www.bungy.co.nz ). If you arrive via helicopter (by prior arrangement) there’s a designated landing zone at the centre as well (www.bungy.co.nz ). Rideshare drop-offs are permitted at the main entrance off SH6, and taxi drivers know how to get there (typically they drop passengers on the upper crest of the site). After dark the highway is well-lit enough for safe passage, but local roads are winding – if you’re driving late, take it slow. Once you park you’ll head down a short ramp or the spiraling wooden walkway into the Centre’s check-in area.
Inside the Venue
On entry you’ll find a small reception/check-in desk where staff will greet you. Next to this is a **cafe/bar** colloquially named “Liquid Courage” (www.bungy.co.nz ). It serves casual meals, snacks and drinks – perfect for jumpers (and their cheering friends) to refuel. Don’t underestimate it: you don’t even have to bungy to hang out here and enjoy the free thrill of watching others take the plunge (www.bungy.co.nz ). The on-site bar carries beer and wine, and sells AJ Hackett merch in a mini shop corner. In fact, every jumper earns a free souvenir T-shirt commemorating the 43m drop (hk.trip.com ). There are restrooms and changing stalls inside the building (expect them to be clean and basic). It’s also heated comfortably – you’ll probably linger here to watch TV screens replaying jump footage or testing your nerves in the chairs.
If you’re just spectating, the front of the deck is where things happen – watch the harness session from inside and then pop out once the jumper is ready. The decks and lounge have benches and picnic tables for relaxing, but often people stand or perch on the rails. The venue has free (but spotty) Wi-Fi if you need to share videos. Note that there are no coat checks or lockers, so carry only what you need (you can usually stow small belongings in the lounge). In safety terms, all gear loosens are handled by staff. Visitors should remove hats or jewelry before going near the jump. (Cameras and phones may be allowed on the deck for photos, but during a jump you’ll need to hand them to staff or strap them securely.) Staff maintain a professional but fun atmosphere – don’t be surprised to see them cheer, play music or crack jokes, as making you feel safe and excited is part of the experience.
Nearby Amenities
While Albany Valley is fairly remote, there are a few key amenities and eateries within easy reach. **Right on site** is the Liquid Courage bar (mentioned above) – a casual spot for a bite or drink before or after your jump (www.bungy.co.nz ). For a more substantial meal, many visitors drive a few minutes up the road to Gibbston Valley Winery’s Restaurant at 1820 Gibbston Hwy (en.tripadvisor.com.hk ). This acclaimed winery restaurant (the top-rated lunch spot in Gibbston) specializes in seasonal New Zealand cuisine paired with local wines (en.tripadvisor.com.hk ). Close by is also the Chard Farm Winery (with small café) and Akarua Vineyard (which has a café and family-friendly cellar door with a playground). A short drive back toward Queenstown (15–20 minutes) brings you through Arrowtown, where you’ll find cafes, pubs and bakeries (e.g. note the famed Arrowtown Bakery pies or Fergburger franchises). If you’re staying in Queenstown itself, many restaurants and bars line The Mall and Steamer Wharf – from lakeside pubs like **Eichardt’s Bar** to fun ice bars (e.g. Minus5°).
In terms of lodging, options abound. Queenstown’s city center (about 25 minutes away) has every hotel, motel or B&B you can imagine. In Gibbston/Glenorchy itself there are also boutique stays and farm lodges, though most people prefer staying in Queenstown or Arrowtown and driving out for the bungy. When planning your visit consider other local activities: the Kawarau bike trail passes right by the site for cyclists, and guided wine tours in Gibbston often include a bungy stop or pass.
Generally arrive **at least 15 minutes early** for your booking. If you plan to dine, aim for lunch 1–2 hours before jumping (especially in cooler weather). If you have a night event at the Bungy, note that the highway is open late but you may want a pre-booked ride home – Queenstown’s 24h taxis (like Blue Bubble or local rental cars) or rideshares work at night since there’s no local bus after dark. Surrounding roads are quiet after 10pm, so plan safe transportation if needed. As an example, one TripAdvisor guide notes that you get about “1–2 hours” at the Bungy Centre (hk.trip.com ), so you may want to combine it with nearby winetasting or sightseeing in your schedule.
What Makes This Venue Special
The Kawarau Bungy Centre’s uniqueness comes from **history, setting and personality** all wrapped in one adrenaline rush. It isn’t an arena or theatre – it’s an adrenaline laboratory in the wild. Being the birthplace of commercial bungy gives it deep legacy: people come here to test the very sport AJ Hackett created. The views are ridiculously photogenic: turquoise river, sheer canyon walls and tussock hills filigreed by the old suspension bridge. One reason Queenstown became world-famous for adventure tourism is because of this spot (www.ticketfairy.com ). Locals still speak of “leaping off where AJ did it” – indeed there’s a plaque marking the exact spot of that first 1988 jump (www.ticketfairy.com ). That sense of heritage fascinates visitors.
The architecture adds to the magic: the main building is so seamlessly built into the rock that the gorge scenery feels to spill through the glass walls. As the builders’ portfolio describes it, the Bungy Centre is “large theatre & tourism building…buried in the hillside for minimal scenic impact” (abl.co.nz ). The NZ Institute of Architects agreed – it won a Southern NZ tourism design award for marrying rugged nature with an “adrenalin-filled” function (abl.co.nz ). AJ Hackett and staff often point out it’s the kind of place you can’t replicate anywhere else. It combines casual picnic-spot ambience (outdoors, sunny decks) with a high-tech event space (inside, plus lighting rigs) so that both jumpers and partygoers love it.
Many famous moments have taken place here. Each October 24th is unofficial “Kawarau Bungy Day” celebrating that 1988 leap. Over the years dozens of stunts and tandem jumps (sometimes with celebrities or TV cameras) have happened under this bridge. It’s even home to the world’s only bike-bungy setup (a spring ramp for bikes) – evidenced by the Queenstown Bike Festival events here. Economically, the bungy centre injects tourism dollars into Gibbston: hundreds of visitors a day spend on jumps, food, souvenirs and local wine tours. Culturally, it has cemented a Kiwi attitude of “live boldly” – a riff on AJ’s motto “Live More, Fear Less.” On big event nights you’ll see locals and visitors alike grooving by nightfall on the deck, showing how this “bungy centre” has become a local social hotspot as much as a tourist attraction (www.bungy.co.nz ) (www.bungy.co.nz ).
Visitor Tips and Information
Book ahead: You must reserve your jump time online before you arrive (www.ticketfairy.com ). Popular slots (summer weekends, holiday seasons) sell out quickly, so booking at least 48 hours in advance is advised (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.bungy.co.nz ). There is no on-site ticket booth for same-day walk-ins.Arrival time: Plan to arrive ~30 minutes before your scheduled jump. That gives time to park, check in, sign waivers and get harnessed. Staff will weigh you and explain safety procedures. A Trip.com guide notes that a typical visit takes about 1–2 hours (hk.trip.com ), so padding your trip is wise.Age & weight rules: The minimum jumper age is 10 years (www.bungy.co.nz ). Anyone under 15 needs an adult’s signed consent but doesn’t require the adult to jump. Heavy or very light people: the harness fits jumpers 35–235 kg (www.bungy.co.nz ). Tandem jumping is allowed (max combined weight 235 kg) (www.bungy.co.nz ). If you exceed these limits or have medical conditions (heart issues, pregnancy, etc.), you won’t be permitted to go.What to wear: Comfortable active clothing is best. Athletic shoes or sneakers are a must – this is not high-heels or sandals territory. Secured glasses if needed. Bring layers if it’s chilly (the deck can be cold, though inside is heated). Remove loose items: jewelry, watches, hats should be left in your bag or car. Staff will fit you in a snug harness under your clothes.Bring/Don’t bring: Essentials are your photo ID (for check-in) and cash/card for souvenirs or food. You’ll receive a free souvenir T-shirt (hk.trip.com ), and photos/videos can be bought digitally. Leave valuables behind or give them to a non-jumping friend – pockets must be empty when jumping. Cameras/phones are not allowed attached to your body during a jump. The gift shop and cafe accept cards but bring a bit of cash in case of a machine issue.Spectating: You absolutely can watch if you’re not jumping (www.ticketfairy.com ). Spectator admission is free. Families often send one person up and the rest cheer from the deck. If children are only coming to watch, make sure they stay safe behind the railings on the upper deck – don’t let kids run on the lower platforms where jump ropes are.Accessibility: The site offers designated accessible parking and ramped access to the top deck (www.accesstravel.com ). Visitors in wheelchairs can watch from the upper viewing platform. The indoor lounge is step-free with accessible restrooms, according to travel guides (www.accesstravel.com ). (Of course, individuals with mobility issues cannot make the jump, but can still enjoy the view.)Weather policies: Bungy jumps run in most weather conditions – rain or shine (www.bungy.co.nz ). If an extreme storm or high winds do force a closure, AJ Hackett will try to reschedule your jump or refund you (www.bungy.co.nz ). The bridge area can be chilly if wet, so bring a waterproof jacket just in case. On very sunny days, sunscreen and sunglasses are smart.Presence and health: The entire experience is adrenaline-fueled but carefully managed. Staff will double-check your harness repeatedly. If at any time you feel unsafe or have doubts, communicate with the crew – their priority is your safety. There is onsite first-aid trained staff. Do not attempt to join in if you have disallowed conditions (e.g. pregnant or suffering serious blood pressure issues).Rewards & discounts: Every jumper gets a free AJ Hackett T-shirt (ask at check-in) (hk.trip.com ). If you plan multiple AJ Hackett activities, look out for combo deals (for example, bungy plus swing combos save money). Seniors aged 75+ jump for free (a courtesy discount) (www.bungy.co.nz ). Repeat customers get a loyalty discount for future bookings – mention any previous AJ Hackett jumps when booking.Safety rules: Follow all instructions from the crew. You’ll be fitted with ankle straps and harness that must remain undisturbed until the end of your jump. Jumpers must remove glasses, phones, loose rings, scarves etc. before the leap. Smoking is only allowed in designated outdoor areas well away from the deck. Do not cross barriers into restricted zones.Common mistakes: Don’t show up without a booking. Don’t sprint onto the deck when it’s someone else’s turn – wait your turn off to the side. Avoid if you have taken recreational drugs or a large amount of alcohol. Plan to use the restroom before your jump (there are no facilities on the deck). Listen carefully to the safety briefing so you don’t clog up the process with questions at the last minute.
How do I book a jump at Kawarau Bungy Centre?
All bungy experiences here are sold by AJ Hackett NZ. You must book online at the AJ Hackett website or by phone in advance (www.ticketfairy.com ). There is no walk-up sales booth on site. Bookings typically open months ahead, and it’s recommended to reserve at least 48 hours before your desired date to avoid disappointment (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.bungy.co.nz ).
What are the price and ticket options?
A standard Kawarau Bridge bungy (one person) is around NZ$320 for an adult (students/youth about $280) (www.ticketfairy.com ). Combo packages (e.g. bungy + swing) are also available at a discount. The zipline (**Kawarau Zipride**) costs roughly NZ$50. Tickets include the jump, a souvenir T-shirt (hk.trip.com ) and access to the site. Photo/video packages are extra. Remember that once booked, tickets are not transferable or refundable under normal conditions (www.ticketfairy.com ).
What is the height/weight and age limit for jumping?
At Kawarau you must weigh between 35 kg and 235 kg to bungy (www.bungy.co.nz ). There is no strict height limit, but you must fit the harness safely. The minimum age is 10 years old (www.bungy.co.nz ). Children 10–14 can jump with a guardian’s signed consent. Persons under 10 cannot jump. Tandem jumps (two people) are allowed here with a combined weight under 235 kg (www.bungy.co.nz ). Anyone beyond the weight limits or with disallowed medical conditions (e.g. pregnancy, severe heart issues) will unfortunately be declined for safety.
Can I take photos or video during the jump?
By policy, jumpers cannot hold their own cameras or phones when leaping. However, AJ Hackett provides a professional photo & video service (a photographer and 360° camera rig next to the platform). You can purchase a digital pack of your jump afterward. Spectators are welcome to take photos and video from the viewing decks – just stay behind the safety rail and phones are fine there.
Is there seating or a viewing area for spectators?
Spectators stand on the broad wooden decks; there are no fixed seats. The best view is at the front rail of the **upper deck**, right by the bungy platform (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ). The indoor lounge inside has benches and a stage but it does not offer a direct view of jumps. Spectating is free for all, and children are welcome to watch from the deck. (www.ticketfairy.com )
What are the hours of operation?
The Bungy Centre is open daily from about 9:30am to 4:00pm for jumps (www.bungy.co.nz ). Event nights (parties or concerts) typically run in the evenings (often 6pm–midnight). If you’re just jumping, plan your slot within daylight hours. Book your preferred jump time well in advance as the schedule gets booked up.
How do I get to the Kawarau Bungy Centre by public transport?
Queenstown’s local bus (Route 4) runs along SH6 past the site, so you could ride it toward Arrowtown and disembark near the bridge (hk.trip.com ). In practice, most visitors drive or take a taxi/Uber. If booked on the
Jump, AJ Hackett’s Bungy Bus (shuttle) can take you from central Queenstown directly to the centre (www.bungy.co.nz ). Whichever way, look for the big bridge and the AJ Hackett signage on the highway; the entrance is clearly marked.
Is parking available and is there a fee?
Yes. Ample parking is provided **free of charge** at the Bungy Centre. There’s room for cars, campervans and even tour coaches (the operator notes free coach parking (www.bungy.co.nz )). Park in the main lot above the centre and walk the short ramp down to the building. No meters or payments are required.
Are there restaurants or bars nearby?
The Bungy Centre has its own casual bar/cafe (Liquid Courage Bar) with snacks and drinks (www.bungy.co.nz ). Just up the road (3–4km) the **Gibbston Valley Winery Restaurant** is the top local eatery (en.tripadvisor.com.hk ). It offers New Zealand fare and wine views. Other Gibbston-area options include Chard Farm and Akarua vineyards (cellar doors with food). Within 15–20 min drive are Arrowtown and Queenstown, which have many cafes, pubs and family restaurants for pre- or post-jump meals.
What should I wear or bring?
Wear active clothing you don’t mind rocking around in. Secure shoes (sneakers are ideal). Bring sunglasses and sunscreen on sunny days (the deck can get bright). It’s smart to wear layers if it might wind down. All jumpers must keep clothes on, so no bathing suits. Carry a government-issued ID, and arrive chunky for weight-check. The only accessories you’ll bring on the jump are the provided harness, helmet, and socks; locks and jewelry should be left in your car or with a friend.
Can I cancel or change my booking?
AJ Hackett’s policy typically doesn't allow refunds or transfers once a booking is confirmed (www.ticketfairy.com ). However, they are usually flexible on weather cancellations: if the centre closes due to an unexpected storm, staff will offer to reschedule or refund you (www.bungy.co.nz ). If you cannot make your slot for other reasons, contact AJ Hackett’s team as early as possible to discuss options (they may be able to rebook you). A special note: per their FAQ, canceling at least 4 hours ahead for COVID-19 related issues grants a full refund (www.bungy.co.nz ).
Is there an age restriction for spectators?
No – all ages can spectate for free (www.ticketfairy.com ). Many families come just to watch. Children should be kept safe behind the viewing railing on the upper deck. For certain events, parents should check if there is a separate spectator ticket (some festivals charge a small fee), but normally watching is complimentary. Note: If a child is waiting alone (not jumping), an adult does not have to accompany them, but is encouraged to stay on site.
What accessibility features does the venue have?
The centre is designed with some accessibility in mind. Travel guides note there are marked accessible parking spaces near the entrance (www.accesstravel.com ), and the main indoor area is ramp-accessible. The viewing decks, including the upper deck next to the jump platform, can be reached via ramps or gentle inclines (www.accesstravel.com ). This allows wheelchair users to see the jump safely (though the nearest deck to the river requires stairs). Accessible restrooms are available inside. Always notify AJ Hackett in advance if you need special assistance.
