Skyline Luge Nears Global Milestone
Skyline Luge approaches historic rides milestone as global expansion continues
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The company behind New Zealand’s iconic luge attraction is accelerating its international expansion as it approaches a historic 100 million rides milestone, driven by strong visitor numbers across its eight global properties.
Skyline Enterprises, which owns and operates luge tracks at Skyline Queenstown and Skyline Rotorua along with six international Luge properties, is experiencing a resurgence in visitor numbers, amidst challenging economic conditions – fuelling growth, including well advanced plans for the launch of a new site in Swansea, Wales.
Luge ride numbers reflect this momentum, increasing from 7.46 million in 2023/2024 to 9.89 million in 2024/25 with the assistance of the recently opened Skyline Luge Kuala Lumpur – helping accelerate the company to the 100 million ride milestone, a testament to the enduring appeal of this uniquely Kiwi tourism innovation.
As Skyline celebrates its 100 million rides milestone, CEO Geoff McDonald emphasises the company’s forward-looking vision: “Our goal is to bring the thrill of the luge to even more people around the world. This milestone represents not just our past success but our future potential as we continue to showcase New Zealand innovation on the global stage.”
The company has been focused on growth for the past decade opening several new international Luge properties, which shows the export potential of the Luge experience.
In 2017, Skyline Luge debuted in Tongyeong, South Korea, with overwhelming success— selling 4,239 luge rides on its first day and 1.8 million rides in its first full year of operation. This led to further expansion, with a second South Korean property opening in Busan in 2021, followed by a property in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, in late 2023.
Skyline Enterprises Chief Operating Officer Danny Luke attributes this global success to the Luge’s universal appeal, and its unique characteristics as a guest experience, “Our visitor numbers speak volumes about the Luge’s ability to transcend cultural and geographic boundaries. We’re seeing strong demand across diverse markets, proving that this Kiwi-invented experience resonates with people worldwide.”
Luke, who began his career as a Luge Operator, notes the intergenerational appeal of the attraction. “Families return year after year, sharing the experience with their children and grandchildren. It’s more than just a ride; it’s a tradition that creates connections across generations.”
For further information, please contact:
Ireland Hendry-Tennent | Consultant | Boyd Public Relations Ltd | m: 022 430 9913 | e: ireland@boydpr.co.nz
About Skyline Luge
The gravity-fuelled luge was first invented in 1985 by Skyline founder and entrepreneur Hylton Hensman in Rotorua, New Zealand. Inspired by a cart ride in Canada, Hensman developed a unique three-wheel cart that allows riders to control their speed and direction as they race downhill. Since its invention, the luge has evolved into a globally recognized adventure tourism experience.
About Skyline Enterprises
Founded in 1966, Skyline Enterprises is a pioneering New Zealand tourism and property company headquartered in Queenstown. What began with the iconic Skyline Queenstown Gondola has evolved into a diverse international operation spanning three continents. The company owns and operates adventure tourism attractions, food and beverage establishments, and accommodation services across New Zealand, South Korea, Singapore, Malaysia, Canada, and the UK. With over 1,200 employees worldwide, Skyline Enterprises remains committed to delivering world-class experiences while maintaining its proud Kiwi heritage. The company’s luge operations have welcomed visitors from more than 150 countries, establishing Skyline as one of New Zealand’s most successful tourism exports.