A foam cannon sprays people wating to go on a water slide at Waipawa's Community Splash Out yesterday. Photo/Warren Buckland
A foam cannon sprays people wating to go on a water slide at Waipawa's Community Splash Out yesterday. Photo/Warren Buckland
Waipawa's community pool may be closed but residents were able to enjoy a splashing good time at a council fun day yesterday.
Central Hawke's Bay District Council (CHBDC) offered people the chance to cool off from the summer heat at the Community Splash Out at Nelly Jull Park, Waipawa, yesterday.
More than 500 people enjoyed water-themed activities in the afternoon before an evening of musical entertainment.
A CHBDC spokesperson said the event was held as a way for the community to enjoy some water fun while Waipawa's pool was closed.
Waipawa's Centennial Memorial Swimming Pool was closed last year after a contractor painting the pool to get it ready for summer found cracks and age-related problems in the concrete and plaster.
There were no plans to make the splash out an annual event but it had been such a success that it could be considered in the future, she said.
"It's been going great, we're really pleased with how the day has gone.
"It's really great to see families coming out and enjoying a wonderful day out."
Yesterday was another very hot day so it was perfect for some water fun and following the activities people set up camp with a picnic for an evening of entertainment.
Euan Cruise, 8, of Waipawa, chases bubbles at the Community Splash Out. Photo/Warren Buckland
Children had fun in paddling pools, playing water games and foam fun, going down slides, playing with bubble machines and having their faces painted.
There was also music and other entertainment including a children's fashion show, a juggler.
Music included jazz from David Selfe and reggae band Heavy Rootz.
CHBDC will be considering a comprehensive long-term strategy for the outdoor Waipawa pool, with the potential to re-open a new, upgraded facility next summer.
In December, the finance and planning committee recommended that $650,000 be included in the first year of the 2018-2028 draft long term plan (LTP) to put towards renewing the facility for the benefit of the Central Hawke's Bay district as a whole.
