Opening sets tone for wild summer

Toni and Shanell Marwood from Hastings made the most of opening day at Splash Planet in Hastings yesterday. Photo / Paul Taylor

A soft opening for Splash Planet in Hastings yesterday saw clusters of people enjoying the sunshine, though they expect the real crowds to roll in this weekend.

The popular pool will host a Pirate Party to celebrate the start of the season on Saturday - revealing a new pirate ship, hosting a treasure hunt and more.

"We open early to ensure the place is ready and up and running by the time it gets busy," Splash Planet manager Peran Hutchings said.

"We used to get the Popsicle Band through Tip Top, but they don't do that any more so we decided to put together a pirate day, kids seem to love pirates.

"Our ship is a structure that's designed to encourage creative play, going back to the Fantasy Land days."

The pools were refilled last month after being emptied out over winter and lifeguards are prepared for action.

"Water is not quite so nippy as it has been in previous years because of the nice weather we've been having.

"Hopefully this weekend will be sunny and people will come out to enjoy it."