AJ Hackett viewing platform opening

It is a pleasure to be here today for the official opening of this new viewing deck.

This is of course just the first stage in a major new development planned for this site.

A J Hackett Bungy is one of New Zealand's most innovative and respected tourism companies – and indeed has been the basis of creating a New Zealand icon.

This new investment in its foundation operation is a demonstration of confidence that tourism growth in New Zealand can, and will, continue in the longer term.

I share this optimism.

This development also recognises the importance of combining a quality visitor experience, with genuine respect for the environment.

Environmentally sustainable tourism is now a common theme across New Zealand, and we would not have reached that point without the example and leadership of companies like A J Hackett Bungy.