Naseby luging added to games

Luging has been added to the list of sports for the Winter Games New Zealand, this August.

Naseby's natural luge track will be used for the event, which will appear as a demonstration sport at the Winter Games NZ.

Natural luging is a variation of the more commonly known Olympic luge that takes place on an artificially refrigerated track.

Winter Games NZ chief executive Arthur Klap said natural luge was the 4WD of the sport, which takes place on an unbanked track with a base of hard-packed snow covered in a layer of ice, enclosed in low wooden walls.

"Natural luge has that intrigue factor that will make it a positive addition to the programme. The sport is as exciting for spectators as it is for participants," he said.

Competitors race down the ice-covered, 10-curve track on a sled, lying on their backs, feet first, at speeds of up to 70kmh.

The luge will be held at Naseby on Sunday, August 23.