New Zealand Theme Park Giant Skyline Eyes Thai Expansion
Skyline Enterprises, a New Zealand theme park giant, plans to expand into Thailand after receiving investment approval for a Bangkok facility during talks with the prime minister in August. The company aims to establish a research and devel
The Board of Investment announced that the prime minister discussed expansion plans with Skyline Enterprises, a leading New Zealand theme park and ride manufacturer, during an official visit to Auckland on August 20, 2025. The company has already received BOI investment promotion approval for a Bangkok theme park and was invited to consider further investment across Thailand, given the country's status as a globally recognized tourism destination with diverse attractions from coastal areas to mountains and major tourist cities.
The government signaled readiness to support the company in establishing a research and development center in Thailand to develop new ride components, a venture requiring specialized engineering expertise and a strong commitment to user safety. Skyline Enterprises, founded in 1966, is known for developing, designing, and managing world-class tourism attractions and rides, including the Queenstown Gondola—the steepest aerial cable car in the Southern Hemisphere—and the globally famous Luge ride. The company currently operates in New Zealand, Canada, South Korea, Singapore, and Malaysia, and is expanding into the United Kingdom.
Skyline recently received BOI investment promotion approval for a Bangkok theme park, viewing Thailand as a high-potential market for Asian expansion given the strength of its tourism industry and both domestic and international visitor base. The company sees significant opportunities for development across various regions. Board of Investment secretary-general Naruetom Therdstiraskul noted that Skyline's investment will not only bring colorful new activities and experiences to Thailand's tourism industry but also advance knowledge-intensive technologies, particularly in ride research and development tailored to Southeast Asian conditions. "If established in Thailand, it will develop skilled personnel and build engineering and technology expertise while strengthening Thailand's tourism and service industries," he said.
