Pros & cons
PROS
- New Zealand’s highest bungy (134 m) with ~8.5 s freefall
- Return transport, photo/video package, and T‑shirt included
CONS
- No self‑drive access; you must take the operator’s bus
- High‑country site can be windy and cold
Overview
This is Queenstown’s big‑league adrenaline venue: a remote, high‑country playground suspended above the Nevis River gorge. The headliner is the Nevis Bungy—New Zealand’s highest at 134 meters with around 8.5 seconds of freefall—joined by the Nevis Swing (a massive 300‑meter arc you can ride solo or tandem, forwards, backwards, even upside down) and the Catapult. Staff are famously upbeat and dialed, which helps settle nerves without dulling the buzz.
What You’ll Do
- Nevis Bungy: shuffle to the edge of the pod, count down, and drop—pure, long freefall before the cord comes alive.
- Nevis Swing: launch in your chosen style for a huge arc over the gorge; great for pairs.
- Watching: there’s a purpose‑built pod and viewing deck so friends can see every leap.
Getting There & Timing
There’s no public access to the site. You check in at the Queenstown Bungy Centre in town, then ride the operator’s 4WD bus to the Nevis valley. Plan about 4 hours round‑trip from Queenstown. The Nevis Playground operates daily year‑round, typically within an 8:40 am–2:40 pm window, and bus times vary by season. Spectators are welcome but must book a seat on the transport (fee applies) which includes the cable‑car ride to the pod.
Requirements & What to Wear
- Minimum age 10 (parental consent required for 14 and under).
- Weight range: 35 kg–220 kg.
- Dress warm in layers—conditions here are colder and windier than in town.
- Covered footwear is required; UGG‑style boots aren’t suitable. Tie back long hair and secure loose items.
Facilities
You’ll find toilets, drinking water, lockers, and basic hot drink/snack options at the base building before shuttling to the pod.
Pricing & Policies
Recent pricing indicates bungy or swing from around NZ$325 for adults and NZ$285 for children, with a student discount available with ID. Spectator spots are NZ$50 including transport and pod access. Full refunds are offered if you cancel more than 48 hours before your booking; within 48 hours or no‑shows are non‑refundable.
Is It Worth It?
If you’re chasing a definitive Queenstown rush, this is the one. The setting is stark and spectacular, the freefall is long, and the operation runs like a Swiss watch. It’s pricey and remote, but as a bucket‑list hit, it more than earns its reputation.
Best Time to Visit
Book a clear, calm day within the operating window (roughly mid‑morning to mid‑afternoon). Earlier slots can mean steadier conditions and you’ll still be back in town by mid‑afternoon. Whatever the hour, bring layers—the valley loves a breeze.
Where it is
-44.8685, 168.9413Tips for AJ Hackett Nevis
- 01Check in 30 minutes early at the Queenstown Bungy Centre—bus only to the site.
- 02Book spectator spots in advance; the fee includes transport and pod access.
- 03Dress in warm layers and closed shoes; tie back hair and secure loose items.
- 04Allow about 4 hours door‑to‑door so you’re not rushing flights or tours.
- 05Don’t buy extra media—photos and video are already included.
Amenities
Near AJ Hackett Nevis
All places →All trails →
0.5 mi awayCardrona Alpine ResortNew Zealand's largest ski field with world-class parks and big viewsRestroom · Food
3.2 mi awayCardrona HotelIconic gold‑rush pub with gardens, hearty fare, and cozy roomsLodging · Restaurant
3.8 mi awayBradronaQuirky bra-lined fence with a breast cancer causePullout · Parking
5.9 mi awayMacetown Historic TownshipGhost town ruins up a riverbed track with real adventure vibesCampground · Exhibit
6.4 mi awayNew Chum Gully TrackUnderrated Arrowtown loop with ridge views and a spicy gorge climbModerate · 4.5 mi · 2 hr
7.3 mi awaySawpit Gully TrackGold mining history and big views on a punchy Arrowtown loop.Moderate · 4.8 mi · 2.5 hr
7.3 mi awayCoronet Face Water Race TrackHistoric traverse with huge Wakatipu views and a few spicy edgesModerate · 3.7 mi · 1.3 hr
7.3 mi awayBig Hill TrackHistoric bridle route to big Otago views from Big Hill SaddleChallenging · 9.3 mi · 5.5 hr
