Ducks out, splash paddesign revealed
Plans for a $880,000 splash pad have been released by Porirua City Council.
The 250 metres squared water play area will replace the duck pond near the playground and public toilets at Aotea Lagoon, Papakowhai.
Council parks manager Olivia Dovey said construction was expected to start in March 2017, once resource consent had been granted, and was expected to take about 12 weeks.
‘‘We are going for a big, splashy fun pad that will have water play features for the littlies as well as teenagers and families.’’
The water used for the play area would be treated and recirculated, she said.
‘‘The pad will feature three bays aimed at toddlers, families and teens and the water features will work in random patterns to keep the fun flowing.’’
The toddler bay will include low-level water jellies, misters, sprays and a water bug they can sit underneath.
It would be surrounded by a curtain of water.
The family bay will include jets of water in a variety of shapes and sizes and a rainbow series of poles that shoot misty water.
A rainforest will pour water from three tall leafy structures.
The teen bay would be a bit more lively.
Spray cannons, in-ground water jets and the massive supersplash dumper bucket would keep the teenagers entertained.
Landscaping around the splash pad will create a grassed picnic lawn with extra seating.
An embankment on the southern and eastern sides would provide wind shelter, Dovey said.
‘‘This is going to be a contemporary water play park that will attract visitors from around the Wellington region and make Porirua’s Aotea Lagoon a premier play destination.
‘‘Children and young people are a key priority for Porirua City Council.
‘‘This project is another way of
What you said:
Marama Stowers: ‘‘I hope it’s gonna be big because on a good day, half of Porirua will be there.’’ Katie Hannan: ‘‘$880,000? No wonder our house prices went up.’’ Leanne Susan Baker: ‘‘Good idea but what is the council going to do about parking for people going to the lagoon, and what’s it going to cost the rate payers to maintain it?’’ Alethea Hokianga-Rowlands: ‘‘ Way to go PCC! They have these in Hawkes Bay and they’re great!’’ K-j Dillon: ‘‘I’d be happier if council allocated resources to keeping the lagoon in well-maintained condition. We have already invested in a splash zone - Te Rauparaha Aquatic centre.’’ Eunice Rebecca: ‘‘Yes! Finally something that can actually be used by the entire community.’’ TomCroskery: ‘‘Cool, shame they missed this summer. Hope more parking andwalking access is on the cards too.’’ Medz T Holi: ‘‘Awesome idea but sad the pond has to go.’’ Karl Crous: ‘‘Feeding ducks is 10min of fun, kids can play on the splash pad for hours. SPLASH PAD PLEASE!’’ providing for them and their families.’’
We want to know what you think about the new splash pad? Is it something your family will use next summer? Send your thoughts to us at editor@kmananews.co.nz.