Bungy Jumping & Canyon Swings in New Zealand: What It’s Really Like + Everything You Need to Know

Bungy jumping in New Zealand isn’t just an activity — it’s a proper rite of passage. I’d built it up in my head for ages, and I’ll be honest: the fear doesn’t hit when you book it. It hits when you’re standing on the platform, clipped in, with your toes near the edge and your brain suddenly offering a long list of sensible alternatives.

A canyon swing is different. A bungy is a clean drop. A canyon swing is the wild cousin — you’re released into a huge pendulum arc and you feel the speed and sideways pull through your whole body. If you want something that feels more like being launched into a ride through a gorge, canyon swing delivers.

This guide covers what it feels like, what to expect on the day, who can do it, safety, costs, what to wear, and how to choose the best location in New Zealand.

Bungy vs Canyon Swing: what’s the difference?

Bungy jumping (the classic)

• You step off a platform and freefall straight down

• The cord stretches, slows you down, then you rebound/bounce

• The biggest mental battle is the step off the edge

• The whole “drop” part is short, intense, and over quickly — the fear is mostly before you jump

Canyon swing (the pendulum ride)

• You’re released into a massive swinging arc through a gorge or above a river

• You feel more speed and movement, especially sideways force

• The biggest mental battle is the release moment, because it can feel more unpredictable

• It often feels longer than a bungy because you keep moving through the swing

My honest take: If it’s your first ever adrenaline “drop,” bungy is the iconic choice and the easiest to wrap your head around. If you’ve already bungy jumped (or you want something that feels more aggressive), canyon swing can feel like the bigger hit.

What it actually feels like (the part people don’t explain properly)

The waiting is worse than the jump

You can feel surprisingly calm right up until your turn gets close. Then your body reacts before your brain does — dry mouth, shaky legs, laughing for no reason. Totally normal.

Bungy: fear → drop → instant relief

The step off is the hardest part. Once you leave the platform, there isn’t time to panic — it turns into pure sensation. The cord catches, you rebound, and then you’re laughing at yourself because you realise you were negotiating with your fear for no reason.

Canyon swing: fear → release → SPEED

A canyon swing feels like you get “pulled” through the air. The drop is only the beginning — the swing itself is where you feel the intensity. It’s exhilarating and slightly chaotic in the best way.

Is it safe?

When you choose a reputable operator and follow instructions: yes.

These are commercial adventure activities built around strict processes: equipment checks, harness fitting, staff verification, and standard operating procedures. On the day you’ll usually see multiple checks — staff checking staff — because that’s how it should be.

Practical safety tips that matter:

• Book with established operators and read restrictions properly.

• Don’t hide injuries or medical conditions — tell them upfront.

• Listen carefully during the briefing. The instructions are simple, but they matter.

• Don’t arrive late, stressed, or rushing. A calm start makes everything easier.

Who can do bungy or a canyon swing? (age, weight, health, consent)

Rules vary by operator and by experience type, but most restrictions come down to:

Age

• Operators set their own minimum age.

• Under 18s usually need parent/guardian consent (sometimes they must be present).

Weight and harness fit

• Most operators have a minimum and maximum weight range.

• Harness fit is non-negotiable — it’s about safety and comfort.

Health considerations

You may be declined or asked for clearance if you have:

• heart conditions

• serious back/neck injuries

• recent surgery

• epilepsy or conditions that may be triggered by adrenaline/stress
  Pregnancy is typically a no-go.

Important: Operators are not medical professionals. If you’re unsure, get medical advice first. It’s not worth risking your health for a thrill.

What happens on the day (step-by-step)

This is roughly how it goes for both bungy and canyon swing:

1. Check-in and paperwork
   You’ll sign a waiver and confirm you understand the risks.

2. Weigh-in (often)
   This is to ensure you’re within safe operating limits and fitted correctly.

3. Briefing
   They explain body position, what to do with your hands/legs, and what to expect.

4. Harness fitting
   Expect it to feel snug. It’s not meant to feel like comfy hiking gear.

5. Equipment checks
   Staff check attachment points, harness straps, and safety lines.

6. Walk to the platform / jump site
   This is where the nerves spike. Totally normal.

7. Final checks + countdown
   They’ll re-check everything and guide you into position.

8. The moment
   Bungy: step off.
   Swing: release.
   Either way — the “thinking” part ends and the experience begins.

9. Recovery and unclip
   You’ll be guided back safely, debriefed, and usually offered photos/video options.

What to wear (and what not to wear)

Wear:

• Closed-toe shoes (secure fit; lace-ups are best)

• Comfortable clothing you can move in (activewear is ideal)

• A light layer if it’s cool (you may be waiting outside)

Avoid:

• Loose scarves, long jewellery, anything dangling

• Skirts/dresses that can flap around

• Anything valuable in pockets (empty them)

If you wear glasses, ask about securing them — many operators have a solution.

Photos and video: are they worth it?

In my opinion: yes, if it fits your budget.

Adrenaline messes with memory. You’ll remember the big moments, but the details blur. The footage becomes the thing you show people later — and it’s also useful for you, because you’ll want to see what you looked like when you thought you were being “calm.”

How much does it cost?

Costs vary by location, operator, and experience type (and whether you add photos/video). As a general rule:

• Bungy is often priced by the jump site and height

• Canyon swings are priced by the setup and swing style

• Photos/video are usually an add-on

• Compare New Zealand Bungy prices here >

My advice: decide your budget first, then choose the location you actually care about. The scenery matters. You’ll remember where you jumped more than you remember the exact dollar amount.

Best time of year

You can do these activities year-round, but operations can be affected by:

• wind

• heavy rain

• low visibility (depending on location)

If you’re travelling on a tight itinerary, schedule your jump/swing earlier in your time in that region rather than leaving it to the last day. Weather delays are a real thing.