Riverland Family Park in line for major makeover

The new owner of the Riverland Family Park in Wanganui East plans a significant upgrade to the complex as well as extending the range of activities the park will offer.

Michael Wilson expects to have the ownership signed off by Monday and said he plans to revitalise the business to make it one of the best family fun parks in the country.

As well as retaining the existing attractions including the bumper boats, go karts and mini golf, Mr Wilson told the Chronicle he hoped to add radio-controlled cars and boats, hire cycles, and a rock climbing tower at a later stage.

"We'll also offer kiddies' parties with battery operated cars and party packs. Other improvements include an eftpos machine, soft music, signage, a website and toilet facilities.

"And we'll offer school team building outings, days for the elderly to have a round of mini golf and tea scones, as well as corporate team building days when the young are at school," he said.

Mr Wilson unveiled some of his plans for the complex when he met the Wanganui District Council's youth committee on Monday.

He said he went to the youth committee because most of his customers would be young people and said he would appreciate any advice the committee could offer.

"My initial intentions will be to get the park up and running in a good and clean condition and running order," he said.

That meant getting the bumper boats, go karts and mini golf in full operation.

Mr Wilson said his future plans included opening a food stall next to the office area selling non-perishable food such as cold drinks and lollies.

"But one of our biggest headaches is to get a public toilet facility in place as soon as possible," Mr Wilson said.

He and his family are from South Africa and he said they had found the people of Wanganui to be very helpful and friendly.

"My daughter and I attended the youth committee meeting and were very pleased by the positive feedback and encouragement from the committee and council," Mr Wilson said.

He said any input and comment from the public about what they would like to see happening at the park in the future was welcome and could be emailed to: carynwilson0@gmail.com