Photo: Phil Whitehouse from London, United Kingdom / CC BY 2.0
If you've ever fancied taking a leap into the void with a stunning alpine backdrop, Hanmer Springs Bungy is your spot. Located just a few minutes from the village centre, this 35-metre bungy jump spans the scenic Waiau River, offering a heart-pumping freefall surrounded by the snow-capped peaks of the Amuri Range. It's a controlled adrenaline rush that feels both terrifying and exhilarating – and the friendly crew will have you laughing nervously as they strap you in.
Highlights & What to See
- The Bungy Jump Itself – Plunge 35 metres off a purpose-built platform into a deep river gorge. The freefall lasts about three seconds, but the memory lasts a lifetime. You can go solo, tandem (if you weigh less than 35kg), or even touch the water on request.
- Water Touch Option – For the truly brave, ask to be dipped into the Waiau River. The crew can lower you just enough to skim the surface, adding a splash to your jump.
- Scenic Views – Even if you're not jumping, the viewing platform offers spectacular vistas of the river and surrounding mountains. It's a great spot for photos or just cheering on friends.
- Bungy Swing – For a different thrill, try the bungy swing – you'll be pulled backwards, then released into a giant pendulum arc over the river.
Suggested Time to Spend
Most visitors allow about 1–2 hours for the full experience, including check-in, safety briefing, jumping, and a bit of time to watch others. The site is compact, so you can easily combine it with a soak at the Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools or a walk in the nearby forest. If you're in a rush, the jump itself takes only minutes, but the queue and preparation mean you should budget at least an hour.
Nearby Areas Worth Combining
- Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools & Spa – Soak your post-jump jitters away in natural hot pools, just a 5-minute drive from the bungy site.
- Conical Hill Walk – A short, steep climb from the village centre rewards you with panoramic views of the Hanmer Basin and the mountains.
- Waiau River – Enjoy jet boating, kayaking, or a riverside picnic. The river is the same one you'll plunge towards during the bungy.
- Amuri Recreation Reserve – A great spot for mountain biking, horse trekking, or a gentle nature walk through native beech forest.
Please check official sources for current details.
Note: opening hours, prices and booking requirements change often — please check official sources for current details.
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Image credits
- Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools & Spa — Phil Whitehouse from London, United Kingdom / CC BY 2.0
- Conical Hill Walk — Pseudopanax at English Wikipedia / CC BY 4.0
- Amuri Recreation Reserve — Mattinbgn ( talk · contribs ) / CC BY 3.0
- Kaikoura — Clilly4 / CC BY-SA 4.0
- Maruia Springs — Whites Aviation / CC BY-SA 4.0