AusLeisure

Skyline Rotorua’s much anticipated gravity-ride activity, Zoom Zipline, opened to the public in time for the Easter Weekend.

The new attraction, which will be officially launched on Tuesday 29th April, involves a thrilling high-speed twin zipline that descends 385 metres down the side of Mt Ngongotaha, now also includes a unique 10 metre Quickjump system which sees guests ‘freefall’ from the landing platform following their zipline ride.

The innovative system is operated by Canadian company Zoom Ziplines, in partnership with Skyline. The company has already designed and built systems in Canada, the USA, Europe, Asia and the Caribbean, with Skyline Rotorua’s ride a first for the South Pacific.

Zoom Ziplines Owner Manager, Ron Betts, says the addition of the Quickjump is the first time the system has been used in conjunction with the zipline. It involves guests being harnessed to a single line and ‘freefalling’ before a special breaking system ensures a soft landing.

Betts explains “after the rush of zooming past the scenery on the zipline, guests can experience a secondary rush of the Quickjump which is very controlled and safe, but definitely gets the heart pumping.”

A small gangplank has been added to the zipline’s landing platform for guests to step out on, before they jump in between mature Redwood trees and land safely on the ground below.

Betts added “Zoom Ziplines activities always involve specially trained guides and strict safety measures, however, those that would rather not take that ‘leap of faith’ are welcome to take the more conventional way down via the stairs and then catch the chairlift back to the top.”

The Zoom Zipline sees guests wear specially made full-body harnesses, as opposed to waist-only, to ensure both the safety and comfort of riders.

Betts explains “the patented harnesses and unique automated braking system, Zipstop, sets us apart in that riders don’t have to do anything but enjoy the ride and the stunning scenery. Safety is paramount to us.”

Zipstop is an automated braking system that ensures a smooth ride and soft ending when the trolley comes in contact with a ‘catchblock’ that engages a three to one rope system, bringing the ride to a halt.

The launch system is also unique in that it is completely operated by trained guides, with guests only released after official safety checks between guides at the bottom and the top of the zipline.

Although the actual build has only taken a few months, years of planning has gone into bringing the Zoom Zipline to life.

Betts hit the ground running when he arrived from Canada on 8th March – his first time in Rotorua, and on the Luge, and only his second time in New Zealand.

Zoom Zipline is suitable for children and adults, with a minimum weight of 27 kilograms and a maximum of 125 kilograms.

Click here to visit the Zoom Zipline website.

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