Zorb Inflatable Ball Ride from Mount Ngongotaha in New Zealand

If you’re eyeing something a little different during your Rotorua trip, the ZORB inflatable ball ride offers just that—an experience that’s both wild and strangely addictive. We haven’t personally rolled inside one (yet!), but based on the glowing reviews and detailed descriptions, it’s clear this activity is a top choice for thrill-seekers and families looking for a memorable day out.

What really catches our eye are the two main tracks: the world’s longest zig-zag Sidewinder and the fast, straight double track—each promising a different kind of adrenaline rush. Plus, the inclusion of hot tubs and a sauna adds a relaxing post-ride unwind, which is a nice touch after the high-energy fun. The only thing to keep in mind? It’s a wet activity, so packing a towel and swimwear is a must.

One potential downside? The activity involves some risk, and participants need to sign a waiver beforehand. Also, weather can influence certain rides, especially the water-based ones, which might mean fewer options on a hot or windy day. But if you’re prepared and love a good laugh, this is likely to be a highlight of your Rotorua trip. It’s best suited for those who enjoy a mix of humor, adventure, and a bit of the bizarre—perfect for adventurous travelers or anyone looking to tick an iconic Kiwi activity off their bucket list.

Key Points

• Unique Adventure in Rotorua: The ZORB ride is exclusive to this location, making it a one-of-a-kind experience.
• Multiple Tracks & Options: From zig-zag to straight, each track offers a different thrill.
• Family-Friendly: Suitable for ages 5 and up, with a maximum weight of 135 kg.
• Relaxing Extras: Hot tubs and a sauna are included, providing a nice balance of thrill and chill.
• Weather-Dependent: Outdoor water rides may be limited on hot or windy days.
• Great Value for Money: About $58.95, with options to upgrade and take multiple rides.

An In-depth Look at the ZORB Experience

What Is It Exactly?

The ZORB experience is all about sliding down a hill inside a giant inflatable ball. It sounds simple, but trust us, it’s a lot of fun—and way more unpredictable than it looks. You start by Superman diving into the ball, which is half water-filled and designed to be safe and smooth. Then you roll downhill, spinning and bouncing, laughing the entire way.

The core appeal lies in the different tracks available. The world’s longest zig-zag Sidewinder twists and turns, providing a longer, more winding ride that feels like a rollercoaster without the track. Meanwhile, the double straight track offers a quick, fast descent that’s all about speed and simplicity. As one review puts it, “You don’t flip over, but you also don’t go down straight like on a playground slide.” That’s a good way to picture it: controlled chaos inside a soft, inflatable cocoon.

The Tracks and Their Appeal

The sidewinder is especially praised for being the longest zig-zag track, which adds a playful, unpredictable element. Multiple reviews mention how much fun they had trying different tracks, with one saying they did two rides each and wished they could do more. The straight track is described as smooth and fast, offering a more straightforward thrill that feels like a slide gone wild.

Comfort and Safety

Participants consistently mention the easy instructions and friendly staff, making this activity accessible to those who might be nervous. But it’s important to consider the safety aspects—participants need to accept the risk disclaimer before riding. The minimum age is 5, and the maximum weight is 135 kgs, making it suitable for most kids and adults.

What Does It Feel Like?

Reviews describe the sensation as laugh-out-loud funny, a total mix of water slide and rollercoaster. One person said they “flopped like a fish” into the ball, which probably sums up the initial Superman-like plunge. The experience is more about the fun of bouncing and spinning than about any adrenaline rush from speed alone. However, for thrill-seekers, the longer zig-zag track packs a lot of twists, and the straight track is all about speed.

The Cost and What You Get

At $58.95, the price for a single ride is reasonable considering the uniqueness of the activity. Many reviews highlight how good the value is, especially since you can upgrade to multiple rides or different tracks for an additional fee. You can also rent T-shirts, shorts, or towels for $12, or hire a GoPro for $50 to capture the chaos.

Post-Ride Relaxation & Amenities

After your thrills, you can kick back in the hot tubs or sauna, which are complimentary. This is a thoughtful addition—especially after bouncing around inside a ball. Free Wi-Fi is also available, so you can share your antics instantly. The changing facilities are heated, making it comfortable to switch from wet to dry.

What to Expect: The Day in Brief

Your meeting point is right on Ngongotaha Road, easily accessible and near public transportation. The activity runs daily from 9:00AM to 5:00PM, giving you plenty of flexibility to fit it into your schedule.

Once there, the team takes you through safety instructions, then it’s Superman dive time into the inflatable balls. Depending on weather, you’ll experience different tracks, but no matter what, you’ll be laughing, squealing, and probably getting very wet. Some reviews mention that on windy days, the water rides can be canceled or take longer, so do keep an eye on the weather forecast if planning your visit.

Duration and Group Size

Your ride lasts around an hour, but the actual rolling time is shorter—what makes it worth it is the multiple tracks and the fun atmosphere. The group size is limited to about 10 people, allowing for personalized attention and minimal wait times, especially during quieter seasons.

Additional Considerations

Bring a towel, swimwear, and waterproof cases for your phone if you want to document your ride. You might find the activity a bit expensive on paper, but the reviews suggest it’s worth it for the laughs and memories. Plus, the hot tubs and sauna are a bonus—relaxing options after the adrenaline.

Authentic Voices from the Reviews

Many reviewers highlight how much fun they had, with comments like “super fun,” “lots of laughs,” and “absolutely no lines.” One even said, “This is adventure at its finest,” emphasizing how the activity is both safe and exhilarating. Families, couples, and solo travelers all seem to enjoy it equally, with the activity being a hit across age groups.

A standout review mentions that it’s a “must-do” in Rotorua, and several say they’d do it again, which speaks volumes about the experience’s replayability. Some reviews also note that it’s quite a good value considering the fun and amenities included.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour For?

If your travel style includes a dose of silliness and a craving for something genuinely different, the ZORB ride ticks those boxes. It’s perfect for adventure lovers, families with kids over 5, or anyone who simply wants to laugh until they cry. The activity’s safety measures and manageable group size make it accessible, and the included hot tubs and sauna provide a nice balance to the excitement.

However, if you’re extremely cautious or have specific medical conditions, it’s worth noting the activity involves some risk, and weather can affect your options. Plus, the cost might seem steep for some, but considering the uniqueness and entertainment value, many find it a worthwhile splurge.

All in all, this is a fun, memorable, and distinctly Kiwi experience—a quirky activity that embodies Rotorua’s spirit of adventure. It’s one of those activities that will give you stories to tell for years and plenty of photos to embarrass your friends back home.

FAQs

Is the ZORB ride suitable for children? Yes, children aged 5 and above are allowed to participate, with a maximum weight of 135 kg, making it family-friendly for most kids and teens.

Do I need to book in advance? Booking is recommended, especially during peak seasons, but you can also reserve through the website or activity provider. Confirmations are received immediately upon booking.

What should I wear? Wear swimwear and bring a towel—be prepared to get very wet. Optional T-shirts, shorts, and towels are available for rent at $12.

Can I upgrade or do multiple rides? Yes! Many reviews mention upgrading to additional rides or different tracks, which is highly recommended if you want to maximize fun.

What about safety? You will need to accept and sign a risk disclosure before riding. The activity is designed for safety, but some risk does remain, so follow instructions carefully.

What happens if the weather is bad? On windy or hot days, water-based rides may be limited or canceled, but the activity still offers a dry track option. The staff will inform you of the day’s options.

If you’re after a playful, adrenaline-pumping activity that’s sure to elicit laughs and create memorable stories, the ZORB inflatable ball ride in Rotorua is a solid choice. It’s a quirky Kiwi invention, and experiencing it is like being a kid again—only with a lot more water, spinning, and fun.