
Hanmer flyride attraction considered behind closed doors
By David Hill, Local Democracy Reporter
The fate of a proposed flyride in Hanmer Springs is being considered behind closed doors in the Canterbury tourist town this week.
An Environment Court hearing got under way on Monday afternoon (March 18) in the Hanmer Springs Hotel ballroom, but local residents are unable to attend.
Community leaders spoken to by Local Democracy Reporting on Monday said they were just hoping to get a final decision ‘‘one way or the other’’, after a drawn-out process.
The hearing was first held in February last year and was adjourned until November, when it was postponed due to illness.
It was transferred to Hanmer Springs due to a lack of capacity in Christchurch, with the closed door hearing getting under way this week before Judge Lauren Semple.
A consent was granted to the Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools and Spa by a Hurunui District Council appointed commissioner nearly two years ago.
The resource consent application was to install and operate a gravity-based recreation activity at Conical Hill Reserve.
But it was appealed to the Environment Court by The Friends of Conical Hill Incorporated.
The hearing is expected to run throughout the week, hearing submissions from the Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools and Spa, the council and the Friends of Conical Hill.
If successful, it would be the latest adrenaline venture for the Canterbury tourist town.
During the consent process, submitters opposed to the flyride said it would have a visual impact on the recreation character, biodiversity and horse trails in the area.
Concerns were also raised about parking, traffic congestion, noise, along with the risk of fire, and devaluation of properties.
Supporters believed the venture would bring value and benefits to the Hanmer Springs community and the wider district, and promote the village as a fun, healthy and interactive place to visit.
■ LDR is local body journalism co-funded by RNZ and NZ On Air.

Poll: Do you have a pet at home?
Neighbourly members LOVE their pets, whether it's a smoochy cat, a trusty pup or even a feathered friend.
We'd like to know how many of you who see this post actually have a pet at home. Let us know in the poll below!

-
73.6% Yes - I have a pet / multiple pets
-
7.6% Not currently, but one day!
-
18.8% Nope, I live in a pet-free home

We're looking for...The Best Floral Garden
The Neighbourly Backyard Awards are in full swing and we are looking forward to seeing the entries on this one!
This week's category is......... Best Floral Garden.
Whether your garden is bursting with wildflowers, perfectly coordinated roses, or elegant neutrals, we want to see it!
So share a photo, or two, in a comment below of your floral garden to be in to win a $100 Mitre10 voucher. Winner will be announced next Monday 🌿🌱🍃


Show us your creative backyard build
We hope you've been enjoying the Neighbourly Backyard Awards so far, we know we have!
It is time for our last award. And the category is....Most creative backyard build
It could be a planter box, an outdoor table or even a backyard bar. We just want to see the sanctuary you've created in your backyard.
So share a photo, or two, in a comment below of your creation or backyard set up a to be in to win a $100 Mitre10 voucher. Winner will be announced next Monday 🛝🪴🛖
