Adventure Tourism History

Coronet Peak opened to become New Zealand’s first commercial ski field in 1947.  A Kiwi by the name of Bill Hamilton was commissioned to build their first rope tow.  In the 1950’s Hamilton went on to create the first jet boat.  Kawarau Jet started the world’s first commercial operation here in 1960.  In the mid 1970’s rafting became popular.  Then in 1988 AJ Hackett began to offer the masses an opportunity to throw themselves off a bridge with a giant rubber band attached to their ankles.  Commercial bungy jumping was born.