BUNGY JUMPING IN  NEW ZEALAND

AJ Hackett and the Thrilling Legacy of Bungy Jumping in New Zealand

If you're looking for an adrenaline-packed experience that defies gravity and common sense, then you’ve come to the right place. New Zealand’s bungy jumping is the ultimate thrill, and it all began with the one and only AJ Hackett, a legend in the world of extreme sports. The birthplace of this heart-stopping adventure is right here in New Zealand, and it’s waiting for you to take the plunge!

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The Birth of Bungy Jumping in New Zealand

In 1986, a fearless carpenter-turned-adventurer, AJ Hackett, made history by taking a leap of faith from Auckland’s Greenhithe Bridge. His inspiration? The traditional land diving rituals of Pentecost Island in Vanuatu, as well as the antics of the Oxford University Dangerous Sports Club. But AJ wasn’t just about trying something wild – he was about making it accessible to everyone.

His first daring jump in 1986 wasn’t enough. AJ went on to defy the rules again in 1987 with an unforgettable (and, let's say, illegal) bungy from the Eiffel Tower in Paris. While the stunt landed him in a bit of trouble with the authorities, it did wonders for bungy’s global fame.

Fast forward to 1988, and AJ, alongside business partner Henry van Asch, launched the world’s first commercial bungy operation at the iconic Kawarau Bridge in Queenstown. This was no ordinary jump; for just $75, adventurers could take a thrilling 43-meter dive into the depths of the Kawarau River, and just like that, New Zealand became the hub of adventure tourism.

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Must-Experience Bungy Jumps in New Zealand

New Zealand has a smorgasbord of bungy jumps for every level of daredevil. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned pro, there’s a spot that’ll make your heart race and your palms sweat.

Kawarau Bridge Bungy

The original bungy site, nestled in the scenic Queenstown, is the perfect starting point. Jumping 43 meters into the Kawarau River, you’ll feel a surge of adrenaline unlike any other. It’s the place where the whole bungy craze began – so, if you’re looking to experience it the way AJ intended, this is the spot.

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Why You Should Take the Plunge

Bungy jumping in New Zealand isn’t just about the thrill – it’s about stepping out of your comfort zone and embracing the spirit of adventure that AJ Hackett started all those years ago. There’s something magical about the moment before you leap, when your heart races and your mind wonders, "Am I really going to do this?" And then, you do it, and everything is just… perfect. That’s the magic of bungy.

No matter which jump you choose, you’re not just making a memory – you’re becoming part of New Zealand’s rich adventure history. So, what are you waiting for? Embrace the challenge, take a deep breath, and book your bungy jump today. After all, life’s too short to keep your feet on the ground!