Skyline Rotorua celebrates 30 years

More than 8 million people have enjoyed the views and activities at Skyline Rotorua, which celebrates its 30 year anniversary today.

Skyline's story began in 1981, when Skyline Enterprises founder Hylton Hensman purchased farmland on the city side of Mt Ngongotaha.

Skyline Enterprises had been operating a successful South Island gondola operation since 1967 and decided it was time for expansion.

Construction began in Rotorua in 1984 with a Swiss-made Mueller gondola system being installed, along with a restaurant.

On March 10, 1985 Skyline Skyrides Rotorua was officially opened. It was re-branded as Skyline Rotorua in 2010.

Skyline Rotorua general manager Bruce Thomasen said in the past 30 years more than 8 million visitors had ridden the gondolas. Many Kiwis will have fond childhood memories of riding the gondolas for the first time - for many it was, and still is, a quintessential part of growing up in New Zealand, Mr Thomasen said.

Image 1 of 4: RGP 10Mar15 - OLD SCHOOL: The luge opened in 1986, a year after the complex. PHOTO/SUPPLIED

In 1985 construction also began on Skyline Rotorua's world's first luge track - which was opened to the public in 1986, with additional tracks completed in 1993 and 2001.

"Skyline Rotorua instantly became world-famous for its luge rides and continues to lead the technology - all components are designed and manufactured in Rotorua and then shipped around the world to our properties," Mr Thomasen said.

Skyline Rotorua has continued to grow, adding other gravity rides such as the Skyswing, Zoom Zipline and the latest - Skyline Rotorua Mountain Bike Gravity Park, with a range of trails for beginners to world-class riders on Mt Ngongotaha.

The mountain bike park places Skyline Rotorua on the world-map once again, as the host venue of Crankworx - the world's largest mountain biking festival.

Skyline Rotorua's top terminal has also undergone a number of changes since 1985, with major changes to the Food Market Kitchen cafe and the recent $2 million upgrade of the restaurant.

"Our tourism markets are constantly changing and it's crucial that we continuously evolve to meet those markets and remain a favourite for visitors for years to come," Mr Thomasen said.

Rotorua mayor Steve Chadwick said Skyline was a great asset for the city.

"Their product has done our community well. To see where it is today is just mind-blowing.

"It shows you can do anything if you believe in yourself," she said.

"I think the whole community thinks it's a very valuable asset and it's been a long term employer of our locals, many who have gone on to great things in the industry."