Rotorua: ZORB Inflatable Ball Rides & Hot Tubs on Mt Ngongotaha

Summary

Rolling laughter down Rotorua hills with ZORB and soaking after

You’ll dive into a giant ZORB ball on Rotorua’s Mt Ngongotaha and roll down wild tracks with water splashing everywhere — laughing most of the way. Try different runs, warm up in outdoor hot tubs or sauna, and swap stories with locals and travelers alike. The thrill is real but somehow comforting too.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I saw was this huge, clear ball wobbling at the top of Mount Ngongotaha, looking like something out of a cartoon. It was colder than I expected that morning — my toes curled in the grass while we waited our turn. You could hear people shrieking as they zipped down the hill, their voices echoing off the trees. Our guide, Sam (he’s local — knew everyone by name), grinned and told us to “Superman dive” into the ZORB. I hesitated for half a second before just flopping in headfirst. The inside smelled faintly plasticky and clean, like a new pool toy.

I picked the Sidewinder track first because Sam said it was the “zig-zaggy one,” which sounded less intimidating than MEGA (that one looked steep from below). Once they zipped up the hatch, someone poured warm water inside — so you slide instead of tumble. It felt weirdly safe but also totally out of control, spinning and sliding with water splashing everywhere. I caught glimpses of sky and green hills between fits of laughter; honestly, it was impossible not to laugh. At the bottom, I tumbled out soaked and grinning like an idiot. My partner tried to say “Ngongotaha” properly but just made everyone laugh harder.

We ended up trying three different tracks (the Pipeline tunnel is wild — you can smell pine needles as you shoot through), then thawed out in one of the outdoor hot tubs while steam curled around us. There were other travelers chatting about which track was scariest; everyone swapped stories without any awkwardness. The whole place felt relaxed — no pressure if you wanted to sit out or just watch for a bit. I still think about that feeling of rolling fast but not really knowing which way is up — kind of freeing.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Zorb ride down Mt Ngongotaha

• Sign risk disclosure document
• Choose one of four Zorb tracks
• Superman dive into inflatable ball
• Roll down Mt Ngongotaha track
• Enjoy twists and turns inside ball

Top questions

How many ZORB tracks are there at Rotorua?

There are four different ZORB tracks at Rotorua: Sidewinder, Straight Track, MEGA Track, and Pipeline.

Is hotel pickup included for the ZORB ride?

No, hotel pickup is not included; you'll need to get to Mt Ngongotaha yourself.

Do you tumble inside the ZORB ball?

No tumbling involved — it's more like sliding around inside a giant water-filled ball.

What should I bring for my ZORB experience?

You should bring swimwear and a towel since you'll get wet inside the ball.

Is there an age or weight limit for riding ZORB?

The minimum age is 5 years old; maximum weight per person is 135 kg (297 lbs).

Are there hot tubs or saunas available after riding?

Yes, use of hot tubs and sauna is included in your day at ZORB Rotorua.

Is this activity suitable for people with medical conditions?

No, it's not recommended for those with spinal injuries or poor cardiovascular health.

Can children ride in a pram or stroller at the venue?

Yes, infants and small children can be brought in a pram or stroller but cannot ride if under 5 years old.

What’s included

Your day includes all ZORB rides on Mt Ngongotaha’s four unique tracks plus access to outdoor hot tubs and sauna for warming up after your runs. Free WiFi is available onsite so you can share your ridiculous photos right away—just remember to bring swimwear and a towel before diving in.