See that ball coming down the hill? That’s us inside it. We were falling around in hysterical laughter (we were falling around in any case) and loved every second of the rapid and watery descent. Moments later we would emerge; soaking wet, dizzy but exhilerated by the tumbling ride we’d just enjoyed.
There are many weird and wonderful activities to enjoy in New Zealand, and while Queenstown is the undisputed capital of daredevil pursuits on the South Island, in the north Rotorua rules supreme. Karting, caving, extreme white water rafting, and in this case, zorbing. Zorbing involves a long gentle slope, and a giant ball. There are two ways to “enjoy” the ride. The first is to be strapped in, and to tumble and turn as the zorb comes down the hill and gathers pace. This sounds truly vomit inducing, and we passed on this option.
Option two involves an restrained journey, where a bucket of cold water is thrown in for company before you start (swimming costumes required of course). Two can ride together for this option. As the zorb gathers momentum, you are tossed and turned and swished around, a bit like a pair of sorry looking socks in a tumble dryer. We had no control over our movements, but the slipperiness ensured we never went head over heels. The gentle option for sure, but still a whole lot of fun!
I have seen signs for zorbing in the UK, and I imagine they are imitating or franchising the concept that began in New Zealand. I would recommend this for those who want a wild ride that’s a lot of fun but doesn’t induce the fear associated with the nearby bungee jumps or other high octane activities. It’ll have you laughing, I promise!
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