Launch pad opens at Lake Hood, Canterbury
By local democracy reporter Jonathan Leask:
Ashburton’s deputy mayor was first down the new flying fox and now she's been the first to use the new jumping platform at Lake Hood.
Liz McMillan and some eager volunteers were the first to launch off the purpose-built tower at an officially opening event on Friday morning.
Despite the autumnal weather, the water wasn’t too cold, McMillan said.
“But I think it will be very popular in the summer months.”
With the community always asking for more activities for youth, the diving platform provides another option at Lake Hood.
“I think it will be pretty popular with kids and teenagers and even the young adults, and probably the young-at-heart adults too."
The platform is a use-at-your-own-risk facility.
Infrastructure and open spaces group manager Neil McCann said jumpers needed to be confident swimmers to access the platform, then climb a ladder to either a 2.5m or 4m high jumping-off point and swim out.
“The jumping platform is in a 4m deep body of water, with no lifeguard supervision.
“There is a lower gradient entrance and exit beach and emergency climb-out ropes on the steeper gradient sides.
“The main safety rule is that jumpers need to ensure the water below is clear of others before they leap off.
“If everyone sticks to the rules, there shouldn’t be problems.”
The platform is in a separate body of spring-fed water at the northern end of the new lake extension – so is not under the same algal bloom warning as the main lake.
The platform and surrounding water would eventually be incorporated into the new lake as it expanded.
“But right now it is separate and water quality testing in the jumping platform’s pond shows no cyanobacteria is currently present.”
The platform was built to attract people who were currently jumping off Lake Hood canal bridges.
“Jumping off those bridges is a safety concern for council as boats and other watercraft could be in the area, so we’ve provided a purpose-built alternative which will generate a lot of fun and be another attraction for the lake.”
The area around the platform is being developed so people can sit and have a picnic while they watch the action or supervise youngsters.
The platform was constructed by the council, in conjunction with Ashburton Contracting Limited, using $35,000 from the Government's Better Off Funding.
Poll: Should we be giving the green light to new mining projects? 💰🌲
The Environmental Protection Authority announced this week that a proposed mine in Central Otago (near Cromwell) is about to enter its fast-track assessment process. A final decision could come within six months, and if it’s approved, construction might start as early as mid-2026.
We want to know: Should mining projects like this move ahead?
Keen to dig deeper? Mike White has the scoop.
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53.5% Yes
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46.5% No
‘Tis the season to not get scammed ...
As Christmas gift shopping moves increasingly online, scammers are ramping up their activity across the country.
Dunedin’s Investigation Support Unit is seeing more and more people fall victim to scams and other fraudulent activity, particularly on Facebook Marketplace.
There are a few ways to avoid the scams and keep yourself safe doing online trades this holiday season, says Southern District Service Delivery Manager Senior Sergeant Dalton.
🔒 “A good first step when looking to purchase something on Marketplace is to check when the seller’s Facebook profile was created. If it’s very recent, there is a higher risk that they have just created this account for a one-off fake item.”
🔒 Another important step is to make sure the seller’s profile name and bank account name match up. “We’re seeing a lot of scammers claiming their bank account name is different because it belongs to their partner or family member - that’s a huge red flag."
🔒 “When you’re selling, never trust a screenshot anyone sends you showing that payment has been made. Check your own bank account to make sure a payment has gone through."
🔒 “Quite frankly, it’s best for all parties to agree to pay, or be paid, for items in cash and in-person. Ideally in a public place with CCTV coverage."
🔒 "If you’re buying a car, check Carjam.co.nz to see if it’s stolen or if there’s money owed on it.”
A reminder: Suspicious activity can be reported on 105
Poll: Pedestrian access is being extended to the Ōtakaro Avon River - good idea?
Pedestrian access from one of Christchurch’s favourite streets is being extended all the way to the Ōtakaro Avon River. This new 12m-wide pathway will give you a direct, easy route from the street to the river promenade ... perfect for a stroll, a coffee run, or just soaking up the riverside vibes.
We want to know: In your view, what makes a city people-friendly?
What else should our urban areas be doing to support better community connections?
Curious about the full plans? You can check them out here.
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93.2% Yes
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6.8% No
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