Looking for a unique, action-packed day out in the stunning Maniototo region? We recently visited the Maniototo Adventure Park and had an absolute blast trying two of their main attractions: the Gold Rush Luge and Indoor Curling. Here’s our accessible access report and everything you need to know before you go!

First Things First: Access on Site

• Parking: The parking area is gravel. Be prepared that you might need a bit of a push, especially if you’re heading towards the ramp up to the restaurant.
• Toilets: Great news – there is an accessible toilet on site.
• Wheelchairs: They have two wheelchairs available for guest use: one adult-sized and one for a child.
• Building Access: The main building has a ramp to get you to the first floor where you can grab a bite to eat or a coffee. The indoor curling is conveniently located on the ground floor with step-free access.

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Indoor Wheelchair Curling: A Surprisingly Accessible Sport!

This was a fantastic experience and is highly accessible for wheelchair users. Here’s the low-down:

• Getting on the Ice: The ice rink is at ground level. The staff can provide a small ramp to get onto the playing surface, but you likely won’t need it. The ice is very slick, so you’ll have less traction. Just be cautious when moving!
• How You Play: You stay in your own wheelchair throughout the game. Another player will gently hold your chair in place to keep you stable while you take your shot. Instead of throwing the stone, you push it along the ice using a special delivery stick.
• The Stone: Be warned, the stones are heavy – 20kg each! But using the stick makes it manageable.
• The Aim: The goal is simple: get your stone as close to the centre of the target (the “house”) as possible. It’s a game of strategy, precision, and a little friendly competition.
• A Cool Fact: Did you know that almost all curling stones in the world come from just two quarries? One is on the Scottish island of Ailsa Craig, and the other is in Trefor, North Wales. You’re literally pushing a piece of geological history!

Price: $45 NZD for adults, $20 NZD for school-aged children per session.

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Gold Rush Luge: A Thrill Ride with Specific Access Needs

The luge was an adrenaline rush! But it’s important to note the access considerations.

• What is a Luge? This is a summer luge, so no ice involved! It’s a wheeled sled that you ride on a steel track, winding down a hillside. You control your own speed with a stick that you pull back to brake and push forward to go.
• Access Considerations:
  • Transfer & Balance: You must be able to transfer from your wheelchair into the luge cart. We would only recommend this activity for people with lower-level injuries who have good trunk control and can keep their balance, as the cart can jolt and turn quickly.
  • Getting to the Top: You can drive to the top of the luge track, but the road is gravel and steep. A 4WD vehicle is ideal, or be prepared for an assisted push up the hill.
  • Tandem Riding: You can go with someone else in a two-person cart, but be aware that the extra weight makes you go even faster!
  • Speed Control: This is key! Pull the stick towards you to slow down or stop. A word of caution from our experience: Nick decided to forgo braking and partially slid out of his seat on a sharp corner! So, use that brake, folks.

The ride itself is short but it’s packed with fun and excitement from start to finish!

Price: $30 NZD per person, $20 NZD for kids.

Our Final Verdict

The Maniototo Adventure Park offers a brilliant day out. The indoor curling is a must-try and is wonderfully set up for wheelchair users. The luge is a thrilling adventure for those who meet the specific physical requirements. It’s a unique spot that truly offers something different for everyone.

Have you been? Share your own adventures with us in the comments!

Love discovering accessible sports? We’ve explored more adaptive activities! Check out our other articles on accessible sports to plan your next fun day out.