Christchurch Skate park extension delayed

A proposed extension to one of New Zealand's largest skate parks has been delayed as Christchurch City Councillors try to stop repeated vandalism affecting nearby businesses.

The Washington Way skate park will be one of the largest in Australasia if the planned $1.2 million extension is completed.

The proposal has been sent back to council officers for more work.

Canon New Zealand is a neighbour of the park on Washington Way.

The company's South Island manager, Tony Phibbs, says its building suffers constant graffiti and broken windows which he fears would increase with a larger park.

He says Canon has considered leaving the area, and is opposed to further development until the problems have been addressed.

Skateboarders say the vandalism is not their doing, and they only go to the park to skate.