Marlborough aquatic complex thrills swimmers

The new aquatic centre at Blenheim's Marlborough Lines Stadium 2000 has opened this week.

The new $15 million centre boasts a 25 metre heated indoor pool, hydrotherapy relaxation pools, a toddlers pool and a lazy river feature with a current to pull swimmers around an island.

The facility, which is sited alongside incorporates facilities for squash, basketball, tennis, volleyball and various other sports and a state-of-the-art gymnasium, is owned by Marlborough District Council and managed by the Marlborough Stadium Trust.

Among the first users at the pool, Alex and Linda Lloyd, of Blenheim, were first through the door after "being hassled" last night by their children Samara, 12, Johanna, 9, and Toby, 13, to take them for the first dip.

Linda Lloyd explained "the kids were so excited about this pool opening and wanted us to take them there as early as 5.45am.

"The pool didn't open until six, but they were so keen to get in there we had to go."

Lloyd's husband takes Toby to the pools every day to train and was impressed with the new appearance, adding "the place is outstanding, the job they have done is outstanding and the kids just love it.

"This place doesn't even compare to the previous pool to be honest, it's in a entirely different league."

Shaun Black, of Blenheim, swims every morning and said he was particularly pleased with the new changing rooms, stating "they are fantastic, 10 times better than the previous ones and really spacious. The pool looks great, too. Everything just looks so appealing."

Other parts of the facility are currently being refurbished and a new outdoor pool is under construction to be opened in time for summer.

For more information go to www.marlborough.govt.nz/Recreation/Recreation-Centres/Aquatic-Centre.aspx