Plans revealed for Christchurch adventure park

Canadian developers are seeking resource consents to build a $22 million adventure tourism park in Christchurch’s Port Hills.

The park will include more than 100 kilometres of downhill mountainbike routes, a 1.8 kilometre-long chairlift for people and bicycles, 2 kilometres of forest zip lines, a mountain coaster and a restaurant and bar seating up to 180 people.

The proposal from Canadian developer Select Evolution also includes accommodation in five lodges and 14 cottages, parking for 220 cars, walking trails, a bike school and rock climbing activities.

The forested 358 hectare site is owned by McVicar Holdings and would be leased to the developer for a 50-year term.

Select Evolution, whose parent company is based in Whistler, Canada, has over years experience in designing, building and operating international leisure and entertainment projects, including theme parks, water parks, adventure parks, downhill bike parks, surf parks and snow parks.

A statement from the company reported in The Press explained that the entire project is dependent on receiving resource consent, and if that is achieved, construction would start in March.

The project has received a $2 milliongrant from the New Zealand Government and would also be funded by a number of third party investors, including some who were New Zealand-based.

Canterbury Cycling Development Trust and Tourism New Zealand are two of the organisations to throw their support behind the project.

Tourism New Zealand Chief Executive Kevin Bowler said there was no facility in New Zealand that matched the proposed adventure park and it would work with the owners to market the facility internationally.

The Trust, which represents road, track, mountain, and BMX riders, said the facility would be an invaluable asset for the community.

As of last week, Christchurch City Council had received 640 submissions to the application, with 35 against.

Objectors, including local residents, are concerned about the increase in traffic and noise produced at the park.

Image courtesy of Adventure Rope Gear. Image used for illustrative purposes only.

9th October 2014 - WORKSAFE NZ GRANTS REGISTRATION GRACE PERIOD FOR ADVENTURE ACTIVITIES OPERATORS