Rainbow Springs' multimillion-dollar water ride is well under way with 140m of track in place.
The Big Splash project will see a water ride carry visitors through New Zealand's ecological evolution, as told by park characters Bugsy the Tuatara, Jenny the Kea, Max the Kiwi and Jack the Trout.
Boats of up
to eight people will be carried from a loading zone near the cafe, up the hill and around the back of the park. People will hear about New Zealand's ecosystem, from pre-human times to Maori occupation and then European settlement. The boats will also be lifted into the tree canopy for a different perspective on the forest ecosystem.
Construction on the new development started in June and project director Stewart Brown said since then there had been significant construction and design progress. This included the laying of the first sections of the flume and work on the two lift structures to elevate the boats along the 431m-long ride. Mr Brown said the high-tech ride would feature a running commentary, animation and an "adrenalin boosting" drop at the end.
"After many months of planning, it is fantastic to see the ride start to take shape. It is a massive undertaking and we are looking forward to the day we can open it to the public," Mr Brown said.
"In order to reduce environmental impact, Rainbow Springs has replanted most of the trees which have had to be removed for construction, including large totara trees and other natives."
Mr Brown said the creative design team had also released a series of images showing some of the highlights of the ride, including an animatronics Haast eagle attacking a moa, a traditional Maori pa site and an early European settlement.
"The ride is expected to be a major drawcard for Rotorua, giving international and local visitors an exciting insight into New Zealand history and culture."
"The development is the largest single investment made in the park since it opened in 1932."
The new attraction is due to open early next year.
