If you’ve never heard of a luge before, imagine a low-profile three-wheeled go-kart/toboggan hybrid (or, you know, look at the photos attached to this pin). The luge is completely gravity-powered, which means you don’t need an engine, just a bit of momentum. But don't worry - it has handlebars that let you control your speed as you race down a winding concrete track.

The Luge was invented in Rotorua in 1985 and has since expanded overseas. The Skyline Gondola whisks you 900 metres up the side of Mount Ngongotahā, giving you front-row seats to panoramic views of Rotorua, Lake Rotorua, and (if you’re lucky) some geothermal steam rising in the distance.

How much does it cost?

Prices will depend on how many times you want to ride, but trust me, no one ever goes just once. I’ve been on the luge more times than I can count. If this is your first time, I recommend buying the five-run pass, which seems to be the sweet spot between fun and cost.

If you have the time in the evening, I highly recommend booking the luge and dinner package to finish the day at the Skyline Buffet. When you hear the word “buffet”, you often think of rubbish hotel breakfasts or all-inclusive resorts with far too many cold slices of pizza. Skyline couldn’t be further from that and was full of grilled meats, fresh kaimoana (seafood), hot meals, salads and a dessert bar.