Vertical Drop - 43m Velocity Valley

Looking down from a height of 43 metres, you are hanging in a specially designed harness and realise that the time has come to be dropped into the safety net below. In order to build up courage, you look around and take a deep breath. With pupils enlarged by adrenaline, you notice that the gorgeous views of the farmland, Lake Rotorua and Mokoia Island seem like an illuminated work of art. You are ready by the time you hear the experienced, reassuring Vertigo drop-master yell ‘three, two, one… VERTIGOOOO!’

You drop – or rather, you FLY – out over the amazing, glittering Ngongotaha Stream. In the 4 seconds before you hit the net, your brain does some amazing calculations – you remember that this is all safe, that thousands have taken this same leap before you. You recall that Velocity Valley nets (in place of bungy cords) are strong enough to catch you. You also remember that this activity is exclusive to Velocity Valley in Rotorua, New Zealand, so the team really know what they are doing. You know all this, but then you calculate that you are just about to drop from 43 metres into a safety net above the water at incredible, freefalling speed! AAARRGGGHHHH…

At the last moment, the strong, supple safety net catches you, surprisingly gently – Phew – you have done it! Who needs bungy cords? You have looked fear straight in the eye and told it who’s boss and you will never be the same; the thrill of this moment will stay with you forever.

Velocity Valley – which holds host to Vertigo, a cordless alternative to the Rotorua Bungy – is located only 10km from Rotorua city and is easily reached by car or bus. Rotorua Vertigo offers solo vertical drops from 43 metres high, so you can brave it alone or terrify a friend by taking it in turns. Every 'dropper' is rewarded by a massive sense of achievement upon completion of their vertical drop – so make sure to rub it in the face of all your jealous friends (just kidding)!

Please note that the minimum age for Vertigo cordless bungy jumping in New Zealand is 10 years old; however, if you are under 15 years old, you must have parental or guardian consent. You will also need to weigh a minimum of 45 kgs to jump.