As a youngster I’d watched countless people take a breath and steady themselves before they leapt off the iconic Kawarau Gorge Bridge to touch the swirling waters of the Kawarau River near Queenstown. They’d be nervous, even petrified when they set foot on the bungy platform but once they closed their eyes and took the plunge they’d always spring back up with a whoop and a few minutes later they’d return to their travelling companions with a enormous smile on their face. I just knew bungy jumping (or bungee jumping as it is called in other parts of the world) was for me!

Bungy jumping is a bit of a legendary activity in New Zealand due to the fact that commercial bungy jumping was founded by a famous Kiwi named A.J. Hackett. Hackett made quite a name for himself back in the 80s because after developing his own bungy cord he made quite a few unauthorised jumps off iconic structures such as the Auckland Harbour Bridge and the Eiffel Tower.

I have to admit that when I finally got up on the platform for my jump off the Auckland Harbour Bridge a little of my bravado had melted away, it turns out 40 metres is a long way down! The instructor counted down from 10 a first time and I was somewhat surprised to find I was still just standing on the platform. But they say second time is a charm and the next time he counted down to one.

I leant forward, closed my eyes and just let go. The 40m fall was unlike anything else I have experienced, the adrenaline rush is definitely addictive. I would do it again in a heartbeat! Plus the views you get as you dangle from that bungy cord are pretty spectacular!

Now granted, it’s not an activity that entices everyone, but, if you think you’re up to it and you’re looking to add a little adventure to your holiday, doing a bungy in the home of bungy jumping is a great way to spice things up!

You can choose to do it in several locations besides Auckland such as Taupo and Queenstown and for your peace of mind know that bungy jumping operators in New Zealand have a meticulous safety record. There are a few medical restrictions though so check with us first if you are unsure if it’s for you.