The Nevis River is located in Otago, New Zealand. It flows north for 40 kilometres through rough country before meeting the Kawarau River, of which it is a tributary. A prominent rock outcrop close to this junction is known as the Nevis Bluff.
The river was one of the sites of the Central Otago goldrush of the 1860s. Today, the region around the river is known for tourism and wine production. New Zealand's highest bungy jumping operation, the 134m Nevis Highwire is located above the river. [1]
A Water Conservation Order protects the river for its wild and scenic character and for recreational use, especially fishing and kayaking.[2] The Water Conservation Order has made allowances for hydro-electric development on the river and Fish and Game New Zealand are seeking to have this provision revoked.[3]