Natural luge has been added as a demonstration sport to the Winter Games New Zealand programme later this year.
The Games, effectively a mini Winter Olympics, are being held around Otago from August 22 to 30.
Natural luge will be held at the southern hemisphere's only natural luge track, in Naseby.
A variation of the better-known Olympic luge, which takes place on an artificially refrigerated track, natural luge takes place on an unbanked track with a base of hard-packed snow covered in a layer of ice, enclosed within low wooden walls.
Competitors descend on their back, feet first, and can reach speeds of up to 70kmh on Naseby's 10-curve track.
"We are continually approached by sports wanting to be part of the Games but have been very selective for our first Games," Winter Games chief executive Arthur Klap said.
"Natural luge has that intrigue factor that will make it a positive addition to the programme."
The Naseby track finishes outside the ice stadium that will host the curling events.
New Zealand Luge president Geoff Balme has long been advocating for his sport and is delighted at its inclusion.
"We know that natural luge has wide appeal and the location is just magic," Balme said.
The natural luge will be held on Sunday, August 23.
