Construction has begun on a major new entertainment complex in Lynmore, which is set to be New Zealand's largest all-weather indoor entertainment centre.

Motion Entertainment, part of the Lynmore Junction complex, is expected to open in spring with the physical construction work starting earlier this month.

The developers recently announced that the Dark Ride had been confirmed as the latest tenant , joining Timezone New Zealand, Megazone Laser Tag, Chipmunks, Strike Zone and
Dialled Indoor Tramp Park as part of the development.

The 6290sq m complex, plus a string of high-quality convenience retail outlets, is expected to attract more than 200,000 visitors each year.

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Destination Rotorua general manager Oscar Nathan said Rotorua was already seen as an all-weather destination and Motion Entertainment would only help to build upon this perception.

"It will also be open later than a number of attractions in the region so it will be easy for visitors to fit a visit into their itineraries during their time here. Boasting an array of indoor activities, it will be great to add yet another family hotspot for visitors to experience."

DARK RIDE: One of the new attractions which will be part of Motion Entertainment. PHOTO/SUPPLIED
DARK RIDE: One of the new attractions which will be part of Motion Entertainment. PHOTO/SUPPLIED

Mr Nathan said it was great to see investor confidence in Rotorua so high.

" Motion Entertainment is a particularly exciting development, increasing upon our already strong portfolio of family friendly entertainment."

One of the owners of Dark Ride, Ben Keenan, said they were excited about opening in Rotorua, joining the Dark Ride in Queenstown.

He said they had been looking for a second venue for some time and were invited into the Rotorua complex, which met their requirements.

It will be good being in with everyone else and make the place a bit of a destination.

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Mr Keenan described the attraction as a moving ride simulator with seats that moved together with special effects. During the ride people have a laser gun which they use to shoot characters coming at them.

Mr Keenan said the ride had been recognised internationally taking out the top award, the prestigious Brass Ring Award, at the IAAPA - the world's largest amusement industry trade association.

The development is being done by Holmes Group. Its managing director Ryan Holmes was unavailable for comment yesterday.

Traffic lights, controlling the Te Ngae and Iles Roads' intersection, along with pedestrian crossings, would be installed as part of the project.

Holmes Group has given an undertaking to Lynmore Primary School that no stand-alone liquor outlets or pokie machines will be included on site.

CONFIRMED TENANTS:
Dialled Indoor Tramp Park
Strike Zone Family Entertainment Centre
Megazone Laser Tag - New Zealand
Chipmunks New Zealand - Playland & Cafe
Timezone New Zealand
Dark Ride