In 2010, I embarked on an unforgettable adventure to the South Island of New Zealand with my best friend. Our week-long journey, organized by Contiki Tours, was a whirlwind of natural beauty, cultural exploration, and exhilarating firsts.
Discovering Queenstown
As part of our South Island tour, we spent two nights in Queenstown, a resort town in Otago renowned for its stunning landscapes and adventure sports. Nestled among the Remarkables, Cecil Peak, and Walter Peak, and bordered by crystal-clear lakes, Queenstown is a paradise for thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike.
For Australians, Queenstown is a prime destination due to its proximity—just a three-hour flight from the East Coast of Australia—and its reputation for superior skiing and snowboarding conditions compared to those found back home. However, Queenstown isn’t just a winter wonderland; it bustles with activity in the summer too.
Embracing the Extreme: Shotover Canyon Swing
Queenstown’s reputation as the adventure capital of New Zealand is well-earned, and we decided to embrace it by taking on the Shotover Canyon Swing, the world’s highest cliff jump.
What is the Shotover Canyon Swing?
The Shotover Canyon Swing gets its name from its location on the Shotover River. Here are some exhilarating facts about this extreme activity:
- Height: The swing is 109 meters high.
- Freefall: Enjoy a heart-stopping 60 meters of freefall.
- Arc: Experience a 200-meter swing arc.
- Solo or Tandem: The swing can be done solo or with a partner.
- Jump Styles: Choose from over 70 different jump styles, each rated by difficulty.
- Unique Discoveries: On our way, we discovered a mountain with probably the longest name ever!
- Discounts: Pay for one jump and get the next at a discounted price. For the truly daring, a nude jump is free—we even witnessed a brave British man take the plunge au naturel!
My Canyon Swing Experience
My friend Tal captured every thrilling moment with some fantastic pre-jump photos. I decided to jump twice, each time with a unique style.
Jump 1: Forwards
My first jump was a straightforward forward dive. You can watch the exhilarating video on my YouTube Channel. The sensation of freefalling followed by the immense swing was indescribable.
Jump 2: The Chair of Death
For my second jump, I opted for the infamous “Chair of Death.” Seated in a chair, you’re tipped over the edge, adding an extra layer of fear and fun. The video of this jump is also available on my YouTube Channel.
An Xtreme Experience
The Shotover Canyon Swing was my first foray into extreme sports, and it was an incredible introduction. The staff were not only professional but also hilariously entertaining, enhancing the overall experience. I can’t recommend the Shotover Canyon Swing enough to anyone visiting Queenstown. It’s a must-try!
Want More Information?
If you’re interested in trying the Shotover Canyon Swing, visit their official website for details on jump styles, pricing, and media purchases. It’s an adventure you won’t want to miss!
Stay tuned for more of my Xtreme adventures on “The World As Bec Sees It.” Happy jumping!