Kawarau Gorge Suspension Bridge facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Kawarau Gorge Suspension Bridge |
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| Crosses | Kawarau River |
| Locale | Otago |
| Heritage status | Category I historic place |
The Kawarau Gorge Suspension Bridge is a famous bridge in the Otago region of New Zealand's South Island. It stretches high above the Kawarau River. Today, this bridge is best known as the world's first commercial bungy jumping site! The AJ Hackett Bungy Company uses it for exciting bungy jumps.
The bridge is also part of the Queenstown Trail. This trail is a path for people who want to walk, run, or bike across the river. The bridge is located within a special area managed by the Department of Conservation. This means the area is protected for its natural beauty.
Contents
Where is the Bridge Located?
The Kawarau Gorge Suspension Bridge is found within the Kawarau Gorge. This gorge is part of the Wakatipu Basin. You can find it between the start of the Crown Range Road and a place called Gibbston.
The bridge hangs high above the Kawarau River. It is about 43 metres (141 ft) above the water. Imagine jumping from that height!
The Bridge's History
Building the Bridge
The Kawarau Gorge Suspension Bridge was designed by a person named Harry Higginson. It was finished in late 1880. Back then, it was a very important route. It helped people get to the goldfields in Central Otago. Gold mining was a big deal in New Zealand at that time.
A New Bridge and New Uses
For many years, the bridge was used for regular travel. But in 1963, a new highway bridge was built. This new bridge on State Highway 6 took over the main traffic.
The old suspension bridge then found a new purpose. It became a popular spot for visitors. Today, it's famous for commercial activities like ziplining and bungy jumping. It's even recognized as a Category I historic place by the New Zealand Historic Places Trust. This means it's a very important historical site.
What is the Bridge Called?
This bridge has a few different names! People often call it:
- Kawarau Gorge Suspension Bridge
- Kawarau Suspension Bridge
- Kawarau Bridge
- Kawarau Bungy Bridge
All these names refer to the same amazing bridge.
Gallery
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A view of the old suspension bridge high above the Kawarau River.
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Another look at the old Kawarau Gorge Suspension Bridge.
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Someone bungy jumping from the old Kawarau Gorge Suspension Bridge!
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