If you're looking for a big fat slice of adrenalin action while in Tauranga, make sure you check out Spring Loaded Fun Park - which will get your heart racing for sure.

You can jump aboard a jet boat for a blast up the Kaituna River, drive a Mud Bug on a four-wheel drive adventure or lift off for a scenic helicopter flight over the stunning Bay of Plenty region. I opted for the jet boat and helicopter combo, which was a wicked way to spend the afternoon.

The Bay of Plenty region looks pretty amazing from the air, as I found out when I jumped aboard the Aerius Helicopter for a scenic flight. We hovered high above the region and out along the amazing coastline, where we could spot the outlying islands and the Kaimai Ranges . I also saw heaps of kiwifruit orchards below, which the region is well known for. It definitely had the wow factor. Next up, I climbed into the Kaituna jet boat which took me on a 30-minute ride designed to "blow out the cobwebs". And it certainly did that!

We started out with a 12km journey up the Kaituna River past pristine native bush, but I was warned that the driver had a serious need for speed - and I couldn't argue with that! Powered by V8 Chevrolet engines, with the ability to go 75km/hr, the Kaituna Jet pumps 380 litres of water per second - jeepers.

It was a fast and furious blast back down river, with a few 360 degree spins thrown in for good measure! Awesome. You can choose whichever activity combo you fancy. The other option is the Mud Bug, where you get the chance to get behind the wheel of a four wheel drive vehicle and get amongst it.

There are great conditions to get stuck into, including dirt tracks, rutted hills and the obligatory mud. So, lots of fun to be had at the wheel.

Spring Loaded Fun Park definitely gets the thumbs up for adrenalin pumping, heart racing FUN!

• Spring Loaded Fun Park can be found midway between Tauranga and Rotorua in the Bay of Plenty region, and it's just 30 minutes from either town.
• It is at 316 State Highway 33, RD 9, Te Puke, Bay of Plenty .
• If you want something a bit more relaxed, you can check out the park's kiwifruit and farm tours while your mates go adrenalin crazy.
• There is also an Off Track Cafe, where you can refuel with cafe food, coffee and drinks.
• The park is open 9am to 5pm seven days a week.
• Jet boat rides are $95 per person. Mud Bug rides are $55. Flights start from $105.
• For more information call Freephone: 0800 TOP FUN (0800 867 386) or 07 533 1515.
• You can also email: info@springloadedfunpark.co.nz or visit www.springloadedfunpark.co.nz

Written by Rachel Pinder, 2009.

Rachel stayed at Harbourside City Backpackers at 105 The Strand, Tauranga. This centrally located backpackers is right on the waterfront, with stunning views of the harbour, fantastic communal facilities, internet cafe, and free bikes. Sarah and the team at Harbourside will also help you find a job picking or packing kiwifruit from April to September if you're up for it. For more information and to make a booking call  07 579 4066. Or email: info@backpacktauranga.co.nz or visit www.backpacktauranga.co.nz