A new purpose built watersports park, Backpaddock Lakes, complete with a slalom course, has opened in Central Hawke's Bay.
About 100 people came through the sports park at the weekend as part of its official opening. Primarily used for waterskiing and wakeboarding, the 730-m long, 250m wide lake is capable of holding international water sports events. The closest equivalent is near Rotorua or Taupo.
The sports park was a locally driven project, said Central Hawke's Bay Wakeboard and Waterski Club secretary Michael Harding.
Local lawyers, surveyors, and construction companies all helped out, some working at discounted rates, or for free.
"Basically, you've got a world class facility in Central Hawke's Bay and let me tell you, you would have to go a long way to find something better," Mr Harding said.