Put the pedal to the metal in Rotorua
If you love being in the driver’s seat, you’ll have an absolute blast in Rotorua. The region is full of pedal-powered thrills for your next holiday that will fuel all your adrenaline cravings. From off-road safaris to indoor drift karting, downhill luging to mountain biking, and a bunch of unique only-in-Rotorua activities, it’s North Island’s adventure hotspot. Start your engines, take the wheel, and get ready to satisfy your need for speed!
Shweeb Racer
There’s no thrill quite like Velocity Valley’s Shweeb Racer – in fact it’s the only one of its kind in the world! Race your mates or your whānau on this pedal–powered monorail track, as you try hit top speeds of 50 km/hr. Pop into an aerodynamic pod, pedal fast along a 200-metre track full of ups and downs, and pick up the pace! Will you cross the finish line first?
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Shweeb Racer
Rotorua Luge
Atop the Skyline Gondola, Rotorua’s Luge is must-do for thrillseekers of all ages! Invented in New Zealand, this unique go-kart/toboggan hybrid is a gravity-fuelled, fun-filled downhill pursuit where one ride is never enough! With three newly-opened runs – including the ‘Twister’ and the ‘Legend’ – there’s now five epic tracks totalling 7.3 kilometres to enjoy.
Take it cruisey with the kids, or race to the bottom as you ‘woosh’ through corkscrew bends and speedy straights. Ride during the day to immerse yourself in the vibrant green forest and lake views; or visit after dark for Night Luge, guided by 170 colourful disco lights and illuminated tunnels.
Off Road NZ
Venture to the lush Mamaku Forest just outside Rotorua city, and you’ll find a park full of exhilarating off-road adventures. Offering Raceline Karting, Monster 4×4 Thrill Rides and 4WD Bush Safaris all in one location, it’s heaven for petrolheads and nature lovers alike. Get behind the wheel of a Suzuki Jimny on a rugged and wild ride through the ancient forest, or let the experts do the work as you take the passenger seat on an obstacle-filled monster truck experience.
Or if you’ve got a need for speed, then go for gold at New Zealand’s longest outdoor kart track. Get the blood pumping in a top-of-the-line professional go-kart, as you reach speeds of up to 100 km/hr. Pick one of their customised packages so you don’t miss out on any of the fun – each ride is unique, but they all come with a giant adrenaline kick!
Mountain Biking
Rotorua is widely renowned as a mountain biking mecca, with over 200 kilometres of top-notch tracks to choose from. Attracting beginners and pros from far and wide, the Redwoods Forest boasts a world-class trail network full of uphill, flat, and downhill delights – where riders of all abilities will have the time of their lives.
Newly crowned as one of New Zealand’s 23 Great Rides, the Whakarewarewa Forest Loop is a highlight – a 33km half-day ride that’s packed full of scenery. The towering Redwood trees, volcanic views and geothermal wonders are simply spectacular, plus the trail has plenty of lookout points, perfect for your Instagram story. Bring your own bike or hire from one of the many expert rental providers in town, along with first-hand trail advice.
Freestyle Airbag
BMX legend in the making? New Zealand’s first-ever giant airbag is calling your name! Descend the hill, take on one of three ramps and hit the air. Try that new trick you’ve seen on YouTube, work on your backflips, or simply show off your slopestyle skills. It’s a freestyle rider’s playground, where you can safely and confidently practice new tricks in a two-hour session. Bring your own bike, safety gear, and your mates so they can capture the moment for TikTok.
Drift Kartz
Imagine driving an out–of-control race car… that’s what it feels like to tame the wild slippery and slidey track at Drift Kartz! Buckle into a high-performance 400c go-kart and take on the specially coated racetrack that’s been primed for drifting. Tackle tricky turns and avoid the tyres, as you compete against your pals and see who’ll top the podium. This is wheel-spinning fun at its finest!
With so many pedal-powered thrills on offer, Rotorua is your one-stop-shop for all things action and adventure. Race your family and friends as you laugh and scream with joy – downhill, round the track, or through the forest. Spice up your next getaway as you push your limits, try something new, and make incredible holiday memories.
