Kawarau River

Overview

The Kawarau River, located near Queenstown in Otago, is renowned for its stunning scenery and as the birthplace of commercial bungee jumping. It offers a variety of adventure activities and scenic landscapes.

Birthplace of commercial bungee jumping and a popular spot for adventure sports.

River Adventure Sports

Location

Address

Otago

Neighborhood: Gibbston

Coordinates

-45.033300, 168.950000

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

monday 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM

tuesday 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM

wednesday 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM

thursday 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM

friday 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM

saturday 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM

sunday 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Admission

Adults

$0 (activities extra)

Children

$0 (activities extra)

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Period

November-March

Best Time of Day

Morning

less crowded, better weather

Duration Recommendations

Minimum

2 hours

Recommended

4-6 hours

Full Experience

full day

Seasonal Highlights

spring

mild to warm

• blooming wildflowers
• clear waters

summer

warm to hot

• long daylight hours
• warm temperatures

autumn

cool to mild

• fall colors
• clear skies

winter

cold

• snow-capped mountains
• holiday decorations

Know Before You Go

Essential Information

Book tours in advance
Check weather conditions
Wear appropriate gear

What to Bring

essential

ID sunscreen swimsuit towels

seasonal

warm jacket umbrella

not allowed

large bags glass containers

Health & Safety

Physical Requirements: moderate to high

• adventure sports can be dangerous

Medical facilities: first aid available

Payment Information

Accepted

cash, credit cards

Currency

New Zealand Dollar

Typical Costs

entry $0

tours $100-$300

parking $10

food $15-$30

Dress Code

casual, sportswear, comfortable shoes, swimwear, water shoes, sneakers, inappropriate clothing

Booking Tips

• 1-2 months
• official tour websites
• 72 hours
• available for popular tours

Amenities

Restrooms

Gift shop

Atm

Wifi

Lockers

Wheelchair rental

Stroller rental

On site restaurant

Cafe

Picnic areas

Outside food allowed

Digital Services

Mobile App

Kawarau River Adventure Guide

Size: 40 MB

Features: Map, Tour bookings, Weather updates

Platforms: iOS, Android

WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Cafes

Charging Stations: Rest areas

How to Reach

From Airport

Nearest: Queenstown Airport

Distance: 10 km

Travel Time: 15 minutes

taxi

$30 15 min

public_transport

$5 25 min

From City Center

Distance: 5 km

bus

$3 15 min

taxi

$15 10 min

bicycle

25 min

Local Insights

Cultural Context

Why Locals Love It: Adventure capital, stunning scenery

Historical Significance: Birthplace of commercial bungee jumping

Insider Tips

Early morning for empty shots
Best food at riverside cafes

Local Recommendations

• Try local cafes
• Ask for guide recommendations

Language Help

Useful Phrases

hello Kia ora

thank_you Kia ora

where_is Kei hea

how_much He aha te utu?

beautiful Māia

ticket Tiketi

Guide Languages: English, Māori, French

Photography Guide

Best Photo Spots

Kawarau Bridge

Best Time: Golden hour

Tips: Wide shots of the river and bridge

Result: Iconic bungee jumping backdrop

#adventure #newzealand

Photography Rules

allowed areas outdoor areas, viewpoints

prohibited areas private property

flash photography allowed

commercial photography permit needed

drone policy restricted, permit required

tripod policy allowed with permission

selfie sticks allowed

Nearby Attractions

Shotover Jet

Distance: 10km

Walking: 2 hours

Type: Adventure Sports

Gibbston Valley Winery

Distance: 5km

Walking: 1 hour

Type: Winery

Reviews

4.7

Based on 850 reviews

Recent Visitor Tips

"Book tours early"
"Visit for adventure"
"Great views"

Contact Information

+64 3 442 6277

info@kawarauadventures.com

www.kawarauadventures.com

Social Media

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