Q&A with Henry van Asch

AJ Hackett Bungy

Henry van Asch, AJ Hackett Bungy New Zealand co-founder and managing director has made a career out of challenging people – daring them to confront their fears and throw themselves off bridges or towers in the name of fun and adventure.

Henry Van Asch

© James D Morgan

How did you become involved with AJ Hackett?

I met AJ in 1985 during the ski season in Wanaka – we were both hardcore skiers. Inspired by footage of the experimental jumps of the Oxford University Dangerous Sports Club who were jumping from mobile cranes and hot air balloons, we began exploring the idea of taking Bungy jumping commercial. We began developing and testing Bungy cords with the help of Auckland University scientists and made a series of extreme jumps in France that culminated in AJ’s jump from the Eiffel Tower in June 1987. On 12 Novembr 1988, we opened the world’s first commercial Bungy operation at the Kawarau Bridge.

Nevis Catapult

© AJ Hackett NZ

What are the some of the main reasons why people want to Bungy jump?

I always say if you can Bungy, you can do anything. When you stand on that ledge, you take a giant leap of faith. That takes guts, and it changes you. People choose a challenge like Bungy for a range of reasons – a significant birthday or rite of passage. Our mantra is live more, fear less and I believe Bungy empowers people to do this.

Can you tell us about the Nevis Catapult?

The Nevis Catapult is our newest experience in Queenstown. It’s the world’s biggest human catapult where you’re propelled 150 metres out across the stunning Nevis Valley, soaring through the air at exhilarating speed, with up to 3Gs of force. It’s very fast and ultra-fun!