Tree-top project is delayed

A "sleeping pod" similar to the ones proposed for Rotorua's Redwood Forest.

Plans to build a tree-top walkway and "sleeping pods" in the Redwood Forest have been delayed because of financial issues, but should begin in the "not-too-distant future".

In December last year, the Rotorua Daily Post reported that the Rotorua District Council had granted a licence to German couple Alexander Schmid and Andrea Muller-Gross to operate a new attraction to be known as Redwoods Outdoor Adventure Activities.

The attraction would include a canopy walk, bush walk and sleeping pods for overnight stays.

At the time, the council expected construction of the canopy walk feature to begin in February, with completion by May or June this year.

The canopy walk and sleeping pod components of the operation were to be developed at "a later date".

The council had considered a number of different adventure activity proposals for the forest before choosing Redwoods Outdoor Adventure Activities.

At the time, Mr Schmid said he was looking for local investment partners to join him and wanted to offer employment to locals with outdoor adventure qualifications.

The location of the new venture is between Rifle Range Rd and the main Redwoods car park.

The council's community engagements & events leader Julianne Wilkinson said she expected work on the project to proceed in the "not too distant future".

Mrs Wilkinson said resource consents had been received and processed and the council were working closely with the German couple.

She said the council was "confident that they remain fully committed to the project".

"The original timeframe for physical work to get under way has been moved out, while the company finalises arrangements with investor partners.

"We understand that Mr Schmid and Ms Muller-Gross will be re-scheduling construction work as soon as current discussions are concluded.

"The council is looking forward to the development offering a new and unique experience for visitors to Rotorua," she said.