A.J. Hackett has today joined the New Zealand Order of Merit.

A number of remarkable New Zealanders are being celebrated at investiture ceremonies at Government House in Wellington this week.

A.J. Hackett - the pioneer of bungy jumping as we know it - has been recognised for his services to adventure tourism.

He invented the elastic cord, and he's been instrumental on setting the bungy jumping safety standard worldwide.

A.J. Hackett said he's proud to be a Kiwi.

"It's great to be recognised for all of our efforts and a real honour to be a New Zealander and receive this award today. It's very cool."