Zorbing in New Zealand

What is Zorbing? Zorbing is the sport of rolling down a hill at speed inside a giant inflatable sphere of course! It's the next crazy adventure activity from New Zealand, the nation that developed bungy jumping and a host of ever-more-outrageous thrill pursuits.

Zorbing is available in about ten locations worldwide, there are permanent Zorb sites in Europe, Asia, Australia and of course New Zealand. Zorb Rotorua "The home of the Zorb" is the original site, and has a downhill course of about 200m, where you can reach speeds of up to 50km/hr. "Zorbonauts" can enjoy Hydro Zorb and Harness Zorb rides.

In the Hydro Zorb or "wash cycle", 30-40 litres of water is added and Zorbonauts are free to run, tumble, flip or slide inside as the Zorb hurtles downhill. It's a blast on your own, even better with up to two friends! Dry clothes and towels are available, cool water is used in summer and nice warm water in winter. The new Zig-Zag Hydro Zorb ride is described as a cross between a waterfall and a rollercoaster! In the Harness Zorb, you are safely secured inside before being sent rolling head over heels downhill, no water required.

"No one takes it seriously" says Zorb inventor Andrew Akers. "The thing about the Zorb is that it's funny. Should you be fearful? Excited? Adrenaline-rushed? It's a really bizarre experience. But people emerge laughing."

The Zorb is based in Rotorua and a seasoned favourite on the Flying Kiwi bus. If you can get a couple of you onboard then we always recommend the water one for a great laugh.

Costs from $49

Trips Ultimate Explorer, Reverse Traverse, Hot Rocks, Northern Wanderer