Skyline Luge Primary Launch Area — Attraction in North Island

This was extremely disappointing. I would NOT recommend to visit during the summer holidays and certainly not during the daytime, especially if you or your child are autistic. The wait for the luge was absolutely ridiculous, and as we got to the front we were told that they had to wrangle some carts and it would be an additional wait.

Staff seemed overwhelmed and inexperienced, and nobody appeared to have any kind of disability or inclusion training.

Unfortunately, the long wait and crowded conditions led to me experiencing a crisis (meltdown), and when we got to the bottom of the ride I tried to seek assistance from staff. This was not forthcoming, instead we were told that there wasn't anything they could do for us, and two parties were allowed to skip ahead in the line in front of us although I had started to lose composure at this time and couldn't stop crying. My 9 year old had to comfort me, and bless the random customer who also tried to.

We managed one more ride, by discovering an additional launch platform (signposting to this option was non-existent) but then my kid also experienced a crisis due to the unauthorised photography that was happening at the top of the lift.

Once again, I tried to seek assistance from a manager or supervisor whilst trying to keep my youngster and our environment safe. Nobody came, but then an assistant from the zipline stand noticed our distress and put us in the hands of a very kind member of staff named Barney. He is who I am giving the 1 star to but he deserves 5. He took us to the office but was unable to get through to anyone, so took my number down because I wanted to leave. I had paid for 3 rides and we only got 2, so all I wanted to know was if we could teturn during a quieter time or on another day.

The absolute biscuit was taken by the apparent supervisor at the bottom of the gondola, whose name was Geoff. I approached him to ask whether we could return another day, due to disability grounds. Before I could even show him my kid's official government disability ID, he cut me off, and when I asked about disability rights in New Zealand, he arrogantly replied that "we don't do special deals for THEM" although I was standing right there. Also not asking for a 'special deal', simply whether we could use the ride I had paid for at a time that would be medically possible for us. Someone may have phoned , I am not sure but the experience was nasty and not something I would...

The Skyline Luge in Rotorua is one of the city's most popular attractions, offering a unique and exhilarating downhill experience. The Primary Launch Area is where the luge adventure begins. Here's what you can expect from this part of the experience:

Skyline Luge Primary Launch Area Highlights

Gondola Ride to the Top: Your luge adventure starts with a scenic gondola ride up Mount Ngongotaha. The gondola provides stunning panoramic views of Rotorua, its lakes, and the surrounding landscape.

Luge Tracks: At the top, you'll find the Primary Launch Area, where you can choose from multiple luge tracks: Scenic Track: Ideal for beginners and families, this track offers a leisurely ride with gentle curves and scenic views. Intermediate Track: For those looking for a bit more excitement, this track features more twists and turns. Advanced Track: For thrill-seekers, this track includes steeper gradients, tighter corners, and higher speeds.

Safety Briefing: Before you start, you'll receive a safety briefing to ensure you understand how to control the luge cart and navigate the tracks safely.

Luge Carts: You'll be provided with a luge cart, a unique gravity-powered vehicle that is easy to control with handlebars for steering and braking.

Helmet Fitting: Safety helmets are mandatory, and you'll be fitted with one before you begin your ride.

Start Line: The Primary Launch Area features multiple lanes to accommodate riders of all skill levels. Staff members are available to assist you and ensure a smooth start.

Spectacular Views: As you wait for your turn, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the Rotorua landscape, making the experience enjoyable from start to finish.

Photographic Opportunities: There are designated spots where you can have your photo taken before or after your ride, capturing the fun and excitement of the luge experience.

Additional Information:

Chairlift: After completing your luge run, a chairlift will take you back to the top so you can enjoy multiple rides. Skyline Rotorua: In addition to the luge, Skyline Rotorua offers other attractions such as a restaurant, wine tasting, a sky swing, and mountain biking trails.

The Skyline Luge Primary Launch Area is the perfect starting point for an unforgettable adventure, whether you're a first-time rider or a seasoned...

My visit to Skyline Rotorua was an adventure filled with excitement and surprises, making it one of the most memorable experiences during my time in New Zealand. From the scenic cable car ride to the adrenaline-pumping luge and a delightful lunch, Skyline Rotorua exceeded all my expectations.

The journey began with the cable car ride up the mountain. As the car ascended, I was treated to a breathtaking panoramic view of Rotorua and its stunning surroundings. The ride was not just a means to an end but an experience in itself, offering a unique perspective of the area's natural beauty. The highlight of the visit was undoubtedly the luge ride. Describing it as super fun and thrilling might be an understatement. The luge tracks, with varying levels of difficulty, offered a perfect blend of speed and excitement. Zipping down the tracks, with the wind rushing past and the beautiful scenery blurring by, was exhilarating. The luge is well-designed, ensuring both safety and fun, making it suitable for all ages and thrill levels.

Lunch at Skyline Rotorua was another pleasant surprise. Often, one might not expect much from dining at tourist attractions, but the lunch here was exceptional. The restaurant boasted a diverse menu with delicious options catering to various tastes and dietary requirements. The food was fresh, well-prepared, and served with a level of professionalism that you'd expect from a high-end restaurant. Eating with the magnificent view of Rotorua below was an experience that elevated the meal beyond just its culinary delights.

In addition to these activities, the staff at Skyline Rotorua deserve special mention. Each member was friendly, professional, and went out of their way to ensure a pleasant experience for all guests. Their enthusiasm and knowledge about the attractions added a personal touch that enhanced the overall experience.

Skyline Rotorua is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to New Zealand. Whether you're seeking thrilling activities, stunning views, or delightful dining, it offers an all-encompassing experience that caters to a wide range of interests and ages. My time at Skyline Rotorua was not just enjoyable but also memorable, leaving me with stories to share and a...