Choosing between Nevis and Kawarau for your Queenstown Swing depends on what type of adventure you’re seeking. The Nevis Swing is your go-to if you want to face your fears with an extreme thrill. Swinging solo or with a friend, you’re perched about 70 metres above the canyon with a 300 metre arc that sends you swinging at high velocity. Alternatively, the Kawarau swing launches you 43 metres above the scenic Kawarau River, making it an incredibly photo-worthy and family-friendly option.
We recently received a message from a customer who tried both and shared her thoughts on the experience. Her advice? “Experience both.” This is her story.
I recently visited Queenstown with my husband, Steve, and our three kids: Jesse (13), Grace (17), and Arthur (10). Like most families, we sought activities that catered to everyone’s appetite for adventure while still providing moments we could enjoy together. We never intended to do both Queenstown swings; honestly, we didn’t even plan on doing one. But Queenstown has a funny way of nudging you out of your comfort zone, and this is the story of how we ended up doing both swings… and why it became the highlight of our entire trip.
Location and Getting There
The Kawarau Swing sits in the iconic Kawarau Gorge, the birthplace of commercial bungy, just a 30-minute drive from Queenstown in the Gibbston region. It’s easy to reach by car or via the free Bungy Bus, making it a convenient option for anyone staying in town.
The Nevis Swing, on the other hand, is a true backcountry adventure. You can’t self-drive there; instead, you’ll take a 45-minute 4WD bus through rugged terrain to the remote Nevis Playground. Perched high above a dramatic valley, it offers a far more intense experience.
We hadn’t planned on doing a swing, but when the kids spotted the big black “LIVE MORE. FEAR LESS.” bus cruising through town, curiosity got the better of us. A quick bit of Googling later, we learned Queenstown is the birthplace of commercial bungy, and suddenly Steve was keen, the kids were buzzing, and the Kawarau swing shot to the top of our holiday list. So off we went.
The Fear Factor of Both Swings
When we arrived at the Kawarau Bungy Centre, each kid reacted exactly how you’d expect. Arthur glued himself to my leg, shaking his head and whispering, “I’m not doing it.” Meanwhile, Jesse and Grace had already bolted off the bus and were halfway down the path, practically vibrating with excitement.
But here’s the twist: all three ended up doing the swing. After going on the Zipride, Arthur’s courage picked up, and he was soon sandwiched in the middle of the swing, gripping Jesse’s hand for dear life.
The Kawarau Swing launches you off a platform above the gorge, sweeping you out over the turquoise river up to 43 metres high before gently winching you back. It’s marketed as the perfect “sweet spot” between a classic thrill ride and a full bungy. And honestly, that’s exactly how it felt.
Afterwards, all three kids were buzzing with excitement. “Can we go again, Mum?” Arthur asked. The same child who, an hour earlier, swore he’d never leave the viewing deck. “Weren’t you scared?” I asked. He shook his head so hard his chin wobbled.
Steve, fresh off what he called a “life-changing experience” on the Kawarau Bungy, was suddenly keen for the Nevis. The kids immediately chimed in: “Then we want to try the Nevis Swing!”
So, the next morning, we were back on the big black Bungy Bus, bouncing over rugged backcountry terrain. The kids pressed their noses against the windows, watching as sheep scattered as the bus climbed higher. When the canyon walls rose steeply around us, Arthur quietly slid into the seat beside me.
The Nevis Swing only takes two at a time, so Jesse and Grace paired up, leaving Arthur with me. I wasn’t sure he would actually go through with it, but he swallowed hard, took my hand, and nodded.
The Nevis Swing is a whole different beast. After a brief drop, you’re launched into a massive 300-metre arc at speeds up to 120 km/h, soaring through open air with an adrenaline surge unlike anything else. Go forwards, backwards, upside down. You choose.
So which Queenstown swing is right for you?
The Kawarau Swing is ideal for first-timers, families, or those seeking to experience the thrill together. Nevis Swing is built for those chasing the next level. It’s a “tell-this-story-for-years” kind of ride.
Both gave us incredible memories, but the best part was watching each of my kids face something new and come out braver on the other side.
Single, Tandem, or Group Options
Both swings allow you to ride solo or tandem, but Kawarau’s new swing adds an extra dimension: it’s the first three-person swing in the South Island, perfect for trios of families or friends.
Nevis also offers tandem, but it only holds two swingers. Its setting and intensity speak to bolder ambitions.
Spectator Experience
Kawarau’s easy access and prime location at the historic bungy site mean friends or family who don’t ride can still watch from a vantage point with river views and café access.
The Nevis site is remote, accessible by 4WD bus, and features dedicated viewing platforms, although it tends to attract fewer casual spectators. It’s more of its own adventure zone.
So, which Queenstown swing should you choose?
Choose Kawarau Swing if you’re after a memorable experience that’s accessible, scenic, comfortable for groups, and shareable. Ride solo, tandem, or even three-person mode.
Choose Nevis Swing if your goal is to experience maximum adrenaline, a big-scale setting, and you’re ready to commit to the intensity.
Still can’t decide. Why not do both, as we did?
Personal Reflection
We came to Queenstown seeking a family experience that would leave us with long-lasting memories, but the last place we expected to find it was on not one, but two Queenstown swings. What began as a casual holiday activity quickly turned into a shared journey of courage and pushing past our own limits. Watching each of our kids, from the fearless to the hesitant, take that leap (literally) reminded us of the power of doing something brave together. The swings gave us a shared experience and a story that we will tell for the rest of our lives.
Book here to experience the Kawarau Swing and the Nevis Swing
FAQs:
What’s the difference between the Nevis Swing and Kawarau Swing?
The Nevis Swing offers a more extreme thrill with a 300m arc and remote location, while the Kawarau Swing is scenic, family-friendly, and easier to access.
Is the Kawarau Swing suitable for kids or families?
Yes! The Kawarau Swing is ideal for families and first-timers. It’s accessible, allows for solo, tandem, or three-person rides, and has great viewing areas.
