Feilding set for Winterland

A snow dome will also offer a magical playground for up to 30 people at a time.

Ice skating and snow angels in Manawatu¯ are an unlikely pastime, but come April Feilding residents will get the next best thing when an artificial rink and snow globe pop up in town.

It may not be the real deal, but organisers Feilding and District Promotion say the rink looks and skates like ice.

The synthetic surface allows 40 people at a time and will be set up in the grass quadrant of Manchester Square for two weeks from April 13 as a way of enticing people into town.

Towering at 5 metres high, and 8m wide, a snow dome will also offer a playground for up to 30 people at a time.

That would provide a rare treat for the young and young at heart, project co-ordinator Raewyn Loader said.

There will even be a singles speed-skating date night for those looking for love, among the theme nights being organised.

The opening night, Friday the 13th, invites people to wear their favourite horror film costume. Other themes include super heroes, party, pirates and princesses, mad hatters and disco inferno.

Loader said there would also be a night dedicated to senior citizens.

Loader said Feilding and District Promotion partnered with Manchester Lions to bring Feilding’s Winterland to town, but they would need to see it supported if it was to return.

‘‘This is a self-funded community project and is reliant on ticket sales and sponsorship for it to be a recurring biennial event,’’ she said.

Loader said there was an opportunity for retailers and hospitality providers in the central business district to create late night shopping on Fridays.

Loader said the Manawatu¯ District Council would resow the grass after the event.