AJ Hackett Bungy Turns 21, Wins Award

Queenstown's AJ Hackett Bungy has celebrated its 21st birthday.

The adventure pioneers marked the event by inviting nearly 400 local schoolchildren to the historic Kawarau Bridge for celebrations which included free jumps from the 43-metre bridge.

Jumpers aged from ten to 13 leapt from the bridge after learning how it was all done by watching 'The Secrets of Bungy' video.

Bungy New Zealand Chief Executive Michelle Trapski said she was delighted with how the day had gone stating "bungy is an iconic activity in the New Zealand tourism industry and we look forward to continuing to challenge and motivate people for many more years to come."

AJ Hackett Bungy has also won a coveted 'golden backpack' after being voted Best Tour/Activity in New Zealand.

The Golden Backpack Awards, run by backpacker publisher TNT Magazine, are Australia and New Zealandâs only dedicated awards for the independent travel sector.

Each year more than 30 companies are recognised for their outstanding customer service in both state and national categories. The awards are voted on by consumers via a national campaign in TNT Magazine and online.

Trapski says she's delighted with her team and their achievement, stating "we've worked really hard to get here and are delighted to receive such a strong endorsement from the backpacker market.

"The fact that itâs voted on by our customers makes it all the more important to us because itâs demonstrating our high levels of customer service and experience."

Other finalists in the Best Tour/Activity in New Zealand category were: NZSki, Shotover Canyon Swing, NZONE Skydive, Franz Josef Glacier Guides, and Taupo Tandem Skydive.