Gibbston River Trail

8.7 km one way

The AJ Hackett Bungy Centre is itself a major attraction, being the home of the world’s first commercial bungy operation. The building is a stunning piece of architecture and well worth a visit. There is a good café, toilets and of course tickets for that bungy jump you've always secretly wanted to do…! Down on the bungy viewing platform there are also many fascinating informative panels and photographs detailing the historic importance of this bridge that are definitely worth a read.

As you leave the AJ Hackett car park (accessible from SH6) follow the signs to the Gibbston River Trail. From here, your journey takes you into dramatic wine country.

As you walk towards the east you’ll be spoilt for vistas - The Kawarau River far below on your left and to your right, the Gibbston vineyards, architectural masterpieces all set within the iconic Central Otago landscape.

The stunning, international award-winning Peregrine Winery building sits lightly on the landscape, nestled in the vines. Inspired by Peregrine (native falcon or Karearea) in flight, this structure has won awards from London-based Architecture Review magazine and the NZ Institute of Architects.

The trail features many opportunities to stop and enjoy the spectacular scenery of the Kawarau Gorge. Bring a picnic and enjoy a rest along the way. When you reach the sign posted Peregrine Loop, this is a must for all walkers as the river views are sensational. There are some tight corners and a couple of looser and slightly steeper sections, but this section of trail is a real highlight of the area. The loop meets the main trail again in 2.1 km. 

At Waitiri Creek & Cargo Brewery, try a fine wine or cold craft beer.

Across the State Highway, make an afternoon of it at the Gibbston Tavern, a real central Otago treasure. 200m up the road from the Tavern there is a great shady spot at the Community Reserve and some sparkling clean toilets.

Take your time in Gibbston - order a delicious picnic hamper packed with freshly-baked baguettes, cheeses and antipasto from Gibbston Valley Cheeses and find a shady spot for your picnic or enjoy an afternoon at the award-winning Gibbston Valley Winery Restaurant.

For wine enthusiasts, it doesn’t get any better than a guided tour through the Gibbston Valley Wine Caves. These unique caves have been blasted out of the solid schist of the mountains, to create an ideal natural environment to mature award-winning wines.

At Gibbston Back Road – currently the end of the trail, visit Mt Rosa Winery or Brennan Wines and if you fancy a bit more of a walk and an escape from the highway, head up the road and continue until it meets Coal Pit Road, where you can enjoy great views back over the valley and a gentle downhill on a quiet sealed road, which will take you straight back to the Gibbston Tavern and Community Reserve.

Arriving back at the Kawarau Bungy Bridge, your options are to head to Arrowtown via the Arrow River Bridges Trail or back to Queenstown via the Twin Rivers Trail and Frankton Track or if you are busy relaxing at one of the wineries, call for a transport pick up back to your start point.