There’s no doubt about it: Queenstown is the Adrenaline Capital of New Zealand. AJ Hackett invented the world’s first commercial bungy, and today, they still offer some of the most outrageous adventures in the country. At their Nevis site, 40 minutes from Queenstown CBD, you’ll find the Nevis Catapult, Nevis Bungy, and Nevis Swing. I’ve included a description of each below.

The Nevis Catapult

Did you ever want to be Superman as a kid? Boy, do I have some good news for you. This is the biggest human catapult in the world, and it will launch you 150m across the Nevis Valley at goodness knows what speed, hitting up to 3Gs of force. They say, “It’s one of a kind, exhilarating and a little stupid.” I’d say that pretty much sums it up!

The Nevis Bungy

This is New Zealand’s highest gungy jump. It’s a massive 134m freefall that lasts about 8.5 seconds and drops you straight into the Nevis Gorge. If you haven’t done a Bungy before, 134m/8.5 seconds freefall might not sound like a lot of time, but to put it into perspective:

• The Auckland Harbour Bridge jump is only 40m

• The tallest commercial Bungy jump in North America (Central Oregon Bungee Adventures in the Crooked River Canyon) is 91m

• The tallest bungee jump in the world, Zhangjiajie Glass Bridge Bungee in China, is 260m.

The Nevis Swing

It is the most famous swing in the world. You’ll swing in a 300m arc over the Nevis Canyon. You can do it alone or ride with one of your friends, and there are a few ways to ride down. My mum, who’s an adrenaline junkie through and through, decided if she was going to do it, she was going to do it properly. She went for the upside-down, backwards option. My dad, who’s a very good sport, joined her and when they got home, he said “She’s mad, your mum” but I think he was secretly very impressed.

How much does it cost?

If that’s not enough for you and you want more than one experience, they also offer combo deals. Here’s what you can expect to pay as of April 2025 (per adult):

Nevis Catapult + Nevis Swing – $520

Nevis Bungy + Nevis Swing – $620

Nevis Catapult + Nevis Bungy – $590

“The Nevis Thrillogy”(all three rides) $805