Shotover Bridge

Shotover Bridge is a historic bridge located in the Otago region of the South Island of New Zealand.

The bridge crosses the Shotover River, which is known for its fast-flowing water and numerous rapids, making it a popular destination for commercial white water rafting trips and jet boating rides that operate out of the nearby tourist resort of Queenstown. The old lower Shotover Bridge was built in 1915 and replaced the previous bridge. It, in turn, was replaced in 1975 by a new bridge and was used after then as a support for a pipeline. In 2004, the bridge was restored and is now open to foot traffic. The bridge is situated 10 kilometers from Queenstown (off highway 6) and offers foot traffic eye-catching 360 panoramic views of the surrounding area.

Shotover Bridge is also a popular spot for bungee jumping. The bridge is owned by AJ Hackett Bungy, which is a company that specializes in bungee jumping experiences. The company acquired a lease to fix up the 100-year-old bridge on the Kawarau River and started their first jump site in 1988. Bungee jumping became the spark that rocketed Queenstown into the international tourism spotlight. Shotover Bridge is one of the four New Zealand sites alone that serve almost 100,000 people a year. One of the most iconic Queenstown experiences is the Shotover Jet, where you get to take a ride through dramatic and narrow canyons. Shotover Jet offers 360-degree spins and is a thrilling way to experience the Shotover River. The jet boat ride is operated by Shotover Jet, which is a company that has been operating in Queenstown since 1965. The company offers a 30-minute ride for 119 dollars per person.

If you are planning to visit Shotover Bridge, there are several accommodation options available in Queenstown. For a good deal right in the center of Queenstown, try the Novotel Queenstown Lakeside. For a hotel with a little more character and personal flavor, try the Queenstown Park Hotel in the shadow of the gondola.