One of the highlights of our New Zealand trip was our first-ever bungy jump off the historic Kawarau Gorge Suspension Bridge—the birthplace of commercial bungy (never “bungee,” according to the Kiwis). The bridge has been standing since 1880, and AJ Hackett launched the world’s first commercial jump site here in 1988. Even better, the turquoise river below is also a Lord of the Rings filming location for the River Anduin and the Argonath, just around the bend from the road to the wineries. Before taking the plunge, we stopped at Chard Farm for a little liquid courage; its Pinot Noirs were fantastic, and the winery sits perched above the gorge with stunning views of vineyards, rugged bluffs, and the rushing water below. After our jump, we celebrated at Gibbston Valley Winery, known for its cellar door, beautiful grounds, and equally excellent Pinots—an unforgettable combination of adrenaline, scenery, and world-class wine.

📸 Summary

Kawarau Gorge Bridge Bungy

For our first ever bungy jump, we went with AJ Hackett’s Kawarau Bridge Bungy in Queenstown, New Zealand, the first commercial bungy jumping location in the world. Scott even touched the water!

🎥 360 video footage

Argonath

The drive along Chard Road to Chard Farm had jaw-dropping views of the Kawarau Gorge and an easy pull-off spot with an overlook of the LOTR filming location for the Argonath (location: 45°00’42.1″S 168°53’32.6″E) and Kawarau Bridge.

Gibbston Wineries – Chard Farm and Gibbston Valley

We visited both Chard Farm and Gibbston Valley wineries in the heart of Gibbston, and the Pinot Noirs were outstanding. Chard Farm, perched above the Kawarau Gorge, offered some of the most stunning views of the trip—its vineyards framed by rugged bluffs and the turquoise river winding far below. It was the perfect blend of world-class wine and breathtaking scenery.