Key Takeaways:
- Rotorua Mayor, Tapsell, is passionate about bringing a hydroslide to the city’s Aquatic Centre
- Plans for a hydroslide were initially part of a larger redevelopment project, but were put on hold due to funding constraints
- The project is not dead, but rather delayed, and Tapsell is exploring public-private partnerships to make it a reality
- The hydroslide is seen as a way to promote physical activity and fun for young people in the community
- The project’s feasibility is supported by the recent changes to the Local Government Act, which includes recreational facilities as a core service
Introduction to the Hydroslide Project
The idea of a hydroslide in Rotorua has been a topic of discussion for some time, with Mayor Tapsell being a strong advocate for the project. At a mayoral candidate forum in August, Tapsell expressed her enthusiasm for the project, stating that she wants to give kids and families in the community the opportunity to enjoy a hydroslide, just like she did when she was growing up with Leisure World in Rotorua. Having grown up with Leisure World, Tapsell has fond memories of the iconic facility and wants to recreate that experience for the current generation.
The History of the Hydroslide Project
Initially, plans for a hydroslide were part of a larger redevelopment project for the Rotorua Aquatic Centre, which was unveiled in 2019. The project included a manu pool, recreational features, and of course, the hydroslide. However, as the project progressed, the hydroslide became a lower priority, and its inclusion became dependent on funding. Unfortunately, the project hit a roadblock when the council shifted $2 million in Government funding to cover the costs of the Tarawera Sewerage Scheme. This decision was made to prioritize core services, and while it was a difficult decision, Tapsell understood the necessity of it.
The Current Status of the Project
Currently, stages one and two of the aquatic centre revamp are complete, but stage three, which potentially includes the hydroslide, is on indefinite pause. Tapsell has not given up on the project, however, and is exploring alternative approaches to make it a reality. She believes that a public-private partnership could be the key to securing funding for the hydroslide, as it would allow the council to share the financial burden with private investors. Tapsell is confident that there is a strong business case for the hydroslide, with potential income from ticket sales making it an attractive investment opportunity.
Community Support for the Project
The community is also showing support for the hydroslide project. Community Leisure Management, which has been contracted to run the Aquatic Centre since 2018, has expressed its willingness to partner with the council on the project. Director of operations Kirsty Knowles stated that the organization would be "happy to partner" with the council on anything that "benefits the community and encourages physical activity". This support from the community is crucial in making the hydroslide project a success.
The Benefits of the Hydroslide Project
Tapsell believes that the hydroslide project is not just about providing a fun attraction for the community, but also about promoting physical activity and health. She would rather see young people engaging in physical activity, such as running and playing, than spending their time playing video games or watching TV. The hydroslide project aligns with the council’s goals of promoting physical activity and community well-being. With the recent changes to the Local Government Act, which includes recreational facilities as a core service, the hydroslide project is now more feasible than ever.
Conclusion and Next Steps
In conclusion, the hydroslide project in Rotorua is a complex and ongoing issue. While there have been setbacks and challenges, Tapsell remains committed to making the project a reality. With the support of the community and the potential for public-private partnerships, the hydroslide project is not dead, but rather delayed. As Tapsell continues to pursue the project with renewed passion, it is likely that we will see progress in the coming months and years. The hydroslide project has the potential to bring significant benefits to the community, and it is exciting to think about the possibilities it could bring.