What is Zorbing?
If you have never heard of Zorbing, then you may ask “What the heck is that?”. To answer your question, Zorbing is a sport that involves rolling down a hill while inside an inflatable ball.
This inflatable ball is known as a Zorb and is sometimes big enough for two or even three people to be inside of it at the same time. The Zorb is usually filled with about ten gallons of water, warm in the winter and cold in the summer, to allow the rider(s) to slide around comfortably.
Most commonly, Zorbing takes place on a gentle slope with built-up edges to ensure the Zorb does not venture off its path. This setting is often utilized for competitive Zorbing, when the participants try to race their Zorb to the finish line first.
Other times, Zorbing occurs on flat ground, typically allowing new participants to get acquainted with the sport.
Origin
Zorbing was created in 1994 by Andrew Akers and Dwane van der Sluis when they constructed a double-skinned inflatable sphere in Aker’s garage.
In 1997, the two set up a permanent site in the city of Rotoura to roll people down hills in their Zorbs.
Zorbing Today
The sport of rolling around in a human hamster ball has increased in popularity in many countries throughout the world, such as the U.S., India, and Canada. But, unfortunately, countries that offer Zorbing offer very limited options. Take, for instance, the U.S. which only has one Zorbing park, Outdoor Gravity Park.
ZORB Rotoura
There’s no better place to go Zorbing than the place where the sport started, ZORB Rotoura. Located on the North Island, ZORB Rotoura is the only place in all of New Zealand where one can experience Zorbing.
There are four different tracks to choose from, all offering a fun experience.
The MEGA Track, which is the longest, steepest, and fasted track in the world.
The Side Winder Track, which is the world’s longest zigzag Zorb track.
The Straight Track, which is designed to race.
And lastly, the Pipeline Track, which involved rolling through a tree-tunnel.
The multitude of track offerings allows everyone to find something of interest to them and experience the area where Zorbing was invented.
It is important to note that prices vary from $45-$75 per person and the minimum age to participate is five years.