40 Years of Fun
Time flies when you're having fun, right? Join us this March in celebrating 40 years of adventure, community connection and unforgettable memories on Mount Ngonotahā.
Skyline Rotorua Through the Years
Skyline Rotorua’s story began in 1981 when Hylton Hensman purchased land on the city-facing side of Mt Ngongotahā, setting the stage for something extraordinary. With Rotorua’s tourism scene thriving, Skyline Enterprises saw the perfect opportunity to expand beyond the South Island. Inspired by the region’s potential, Skyline directors envisioned a world-class “thrill rides” attraction. In 1984, construction began, introducing a Swiss-engineered Mueller Gondola, a 250-seat restaurant, and, most famously, the world’s first Luge, a gravity-fuelled ride that would become an icon. By March 1985, Skyline Skyrides Rotorua was ready to welcome its first visitors, launching with a grand opening.
Fast forward 40 years, and what started as an ambitious vision has grown into one of New Zealand’s most beloved attractions, welcoming over 12 million visitors to experience it’s exhilarating rides, breathtaking views, and warm hospitality. Skyline Rotorua continues to be a must-visit destination, redefining adventure and excitement in the heart of Rotorua.
1981
The Directors of Skyline Enterprises visited Mount Ngongotahā with the goal of exploring ideas for a thrilling new project. This marked the beginning of Skyline Rotorua, shaping the unforgettable experiences we offer today.
1984
The adventure begins as construction kicks off at our Rotorua site.
1985
On 9th March 1985, Skyline Skyrides in Rotorua opened its doors, offering a restaurant, café and our pioneering Luge track, complete with a four-seater Swiss Müller Gondola System. This new attraction quickly received international recognition, setting a new standard for adventure in Rotorua.
1993
Our second Luge track opened, offering a scenic ride that focused on enjoying Rotorua’s views rather than high-adrenaline thrills.
2001
We introduced our third ‘Intermediate’ Luge track, offering a balanced experience between the original high-energy ride and the more relaxed scenic route. The Skyswing opened, adding another exciting and thrilling way to take in the views from the top. That same year, we rebranded with a new logo, marking a fresh chapter for Skyline Skyrides.
2003
The Cableway Restaurant underwent major refurbishments, enhancing its facilities to better serve our guests while maintaining its excellent views and atmosphere.
2004
A major redevelopment began at Rotorua, setting the stage for the next chapter of adventure at Skyline Rotorua.
2005
We installed a state-of-the-art Doppelmayr Gondola cableway system and unveiled the new Pohutu venue space in the Cableway Restaurant, alongside an extensive upgrade of the Skyline Rotorua terminal.
2006
Skyline Rotorua played host to the UCI World Mountain Bike Downhill Championships, welcoming international riders and enthusiasts for an unforgettable event.
2009
An extra chairlift was completed, making it even easier for you to reach the top and enjoy the view.
2010
Skyline Skyrides rebranded as Skyline Rotorua, marking the start of a new chapter.
2011
We launched ‘Dine in the Sky’, added a photo booth and an integrated system for our Luge tracks and chairlift, and opened our Ice Cream stand, giving you even more ways to enjoy your day at Skyline Rotorua.
2012
Walking track upgrades and a car park redevelopment took place, alongside the opening of our Market Kitchen, the launch of the Volcanic Hills Tasting Room, and the opening of the Jelly Belly Store and Gallery.
2013
In April, we celebrated our 15 millionth Luge rider a major milestone. Later in the year we welcomed the opening of the Volcanic Hills Winery.
2014
We introduced Zoom Zipline, refreshed Stratosfare Restaurant with a rebrand and relaunch, and opened the Mountain Bike Gravity Park, expanding the adventures on offer at Skyline Rotorua.
2015
In March, Skyline Rotorua celebrated 30 years of adventure by launching Stargazing and hosting Crankworx Rotorua, the first event of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere.
2022
We opened our new Luge tracks alongside a Night Luge redevelopment across all tracks, making evening rides even more impressive.
2023
Zoom Zipline was rebranded as Hyfly Zipline, a new era for the dual zipline at Skyline Rotorua.
2024
Skyline Rotorua goes through a major rebrand.
2025
Skyline Rotorua celebrates 40 Years of Fun. We’ve got exciting prizes up for grabs in each competition, so whether you’re a visitor, a current or past staff member, or part of our local community, there’s something for everyone.
