Huge Turnout for Alpine Aqualand's Birthday

3 Jun 2009 - Sophie

The Wakatipu community turned out in force on Queen’s Birthday weekend to help celebrate Alpine Aqualand’s first birthday.

More than 1,700 people took part in the celebrations which included free hydro-slide rides, a free movie night for the kids, free membership giveaways and a free slice of giant birthday cake kindly donated by New World.

Three-year old Mathew Woods from Cromwell will be able to take his family to Alpine Aqualand for free for the next year after winning the ultimate One Year Family Pass prize. Mathew’s family have been regular visitors to Alpine Aqualand with Mathew’s family driving to Frankton every Saturday.

Lots of local children wrote birthday messages for Alpine Aqualand’s time capsule which will be buried in a secret location and reopened in 2033 for its 25th birthday.

CEO Fiona McKissock says the Lakes Leisure team has been overwhelmed by the community’s support.

“It’s really rewarding to see so many people of all ages choose to come here to have fun and stay active.

“I believe that sports, culture and leisure are key ingredients for a happy, healthy and connected community and we’re absolutely committed to providing the best possible facilities and opportunities for people to enjoy.”

She adds that the first year has been about “bedding down” and the community would see a number of exciting new initiatives being rolled out this coming year.

“We’ve got a long road ahead of us and lots of new initiatives in the pipeline which we’re excited about. Our new gym which opens later this winter will be a major step forward for us in becoming the Wakatipu’s one-stop-shop for fitness and fun,” she says.

Construction and fit-out timelines for the Health and Fitness Centre are currently being confirmed. Lakes Leisure will announce more details soon.