New Zealand's biggest and best bungy jumps for Kiwi thrill-seekers

New Zealand's top 5 bungy jumps and why everyone else is getting it wrong.

New Zealand has an addiction for doing things that aren't very sensible.

In fact, some things like bungy jumping are downright terrifying.

When Henry van Ash and AJ Hackett came across Bungy (note, bungy with a 'y' - not 'bungee' as the rest of the world would have you believe) when travelling in Vanuatu.

The Ni-Vanuatu were the original bungy enthusiasts. Performing death-defying leaps suspended by ropes, bungy jumping was originally at the heart of the island's fertility ritual.

The two Kiwis knew they were on to something exciting.

They also knew there was a whole nation of thrill-seekers back home, daft enough to pay for the privilege of jumping off a bridge.

In 1988 they made the leap into commercial bungy jumping - and the sport has just been gaining velocity ever since.

Today the bungy phenomenon stretches from the Swiss Alps to Zambia, but extreme sports fanatics will agree the original and best jumps are still found in New Zealand.

Here are our top five:

Jumping from Kawarau suspension bridge. Photo by Lisa Wiltse Photo / Lisa Wiltse, Getty

1. Kawarau bridge, Arrowtown

The Victorian bridge is the birthplace of New Zealand bungy jumping. Dunk into the blue waters of the river Kawarau from the infamous iron bridge.

The Ledge, Queenstown's most scenic bungy jump.

2. Queenstown Ledge

At eye-level with the Remarkables mountain range, the ledge drops out over Queenstown. The perfect vantage point for the thrill-seeking capital of the world.

3. Nevis, Queenstown

At 134m this is New Zealand's highest bungy, providing 8 terrifying seconds of uninterrupted freefall. If you're still keen for more the Nevis Swing - New Zealand's biggest swing - is only a rope's throw away.

4. Harbour Bridge, Auckland

Providing salt spray and views of New Zealand's 'City of Sails' from a unique perspective. That is: from upside down. The attraction also holds the record for most jumps in 24 hours, which is 430 all performed by Kiwi Mike Heard.

5. Velocity Valley, Rotorua

Rotorua's budget bungy is the most approachable for newbie jumpers. The sizable 43 meter drop will whet your appetite for some of the park's other attractions, which include simulated skydiving and jet boat racing.

Bonus jump

Sky Tower, Auckland

So it might be a stretch to include the Sky Jump, but this 'base jump' is not to be missed out. Not a bungy per-se, but the SkyJump is a must-do for thrill seekers after a rush and an unbeatable view from New Zealand's tallest building.