Queenstown

Bungy Jumping

AJ Hackett Bungy. AJ Hackett Bungy, the pioneer in the sport, runs a variety of jumps in the area. Kawarau Bridge is the original jump site, 23 km (14 mi) from Queenstown on State Highway 6 and leads a "Secrets of Bungy" tour in the Kawarau Bungy Centre, an interactive guided tour designed for those who are fascinated by bungy but just can't face the leap. Daredevils who graduate from the 142-foot plunge might like to test themselves on the 230-foot Skippers Canyon Bridge. Top that with the Nevis Highwire Bungy, suspended 440 feet above the Nevis River. If you're short on time, head to the Ledge Urban Bungy and Ledge Urban Sky Swing, the jumping point by the Skyline Gondola; from April through September you can jump or swing by moonlight. Prices start at NZ$180 for the Kawarau or Ledge jump, NZ$260 for Nevis Highwire Bungy (all three include a T-shirt), and NZ$130 for the Ledge Sky Swing. Extra fees apply for DVDs of your exploits. Be sure to check the age, height, and weight requirements. Hours vary seasonally. The Station, Camp and Shotover Sts., Queenstown, 9300. 0800/286-4958. www.bungy.co.nz.

Shotover Canyon Swing. For those who think bungy jumping doesn't keep the adrenaline pumping long enough, the Shotover Canyon Swing gives a terrifying jump with an added scenic boost. Choose your jump style—go forwards, backwards, or tied to a chair—and leave the edge of a cliff 109 meters (358 feet) above the Shotover Canyon. Age, height, and weight requirements apply. 03/442-6990 bookings. www.canyonswing.co.nz..

G Force Paraglide. Jumping off a mountain isn't everyone's idea of fun, but paragliding is a fantastic way to see Queenstown. These huge sails swoop down over the town like pterodactyls, whirling out over the lake and back in to a gentle landing in a nearby park. Paraglide leads jumps from the peak above the top of the gondola every day that weather permits. 03/441-8581. www.nzgforce.co.nz.

More Sports and Outdoors

• Bungy Jumping
• Hiking
• Horse Trekking
• Jet-Boat Rides

• Rafting
• Sailing
• Scenic Flights
• Skiing