Waterpark proposal to reverse decline in Christchurch suburb

Plans for a large spa centre, swimming pool and waterpark could revive New Brighton, one of Christchurch's most deprived suburbs from decline.
The aquatic centre, which would feature hot spas, a wave pool, aquatic play area, waterslides and a 25 metre lap pool, to be located on the New Brighton seafront has been welcomed as a "stunning idea" by Christchurch Mayor Bob Parker.
Proposed by the The Burwood-Pegasus Community Board, the scheme could be funded with $29.5 million set aside in Christchurch City Council budgets for a recreation facility in the north east of the city.
Burwood-Pegasus Community Board Members David said the scheme would integrate with a recently released council masterplan for New Brighton, which proposes the building of an 'entertainment hub' on the supermarket site.
East explains "the masterplan has some good points, but we think it lacks the wow factor.
"There is nothing in the masterplan that would warrant investors spending some money in New Brighton. The area needs a point of difference for people to want to go there."
East believes that the facility the centre could partly replace the QEII Park aquatic and sport centre, which is being demolished as a result of earthquake damage.
He adds "we are trying to reinvent New Brighton. We have seen slow roads and paint jobs and patch-ups and none of it has worked.
"What we are trying to do is put New Brighton on the Christchurch map and the New Zealand map. This would do it. There is nothing like this in New Zealand."
Major Parker said the proposal was "stunning", adding "I think the New Brighton masterplan is a great starting point, but I can't help reflect on the fact that we have had a number of plans for the area, but what has long been missing is a drawcard."
Parker said Canterbury Earthquake Recovery Authority (CERA) powers may be needed to create a single site for the scheme.
The concept design for the scheme was drawn up by leisure architects LHT Design and former QEII Park Manager Alan Direen.
If backed by Christchurch City Council, the masterplan will be subject to comprehensive community consultation.