Would you brave the country’s only trapdoor hydroslide?

Thursday, 11 September 2025

The country’s only trapdoor hydroslide at Christchurch’s Parakiore Recreation and Sport Centre is among the facility’s five eel-inspired slides

The first test ride of the country’s only trapdoor hydroslide at Christchurch’s new Parakiore Recreation and Sport Centre offers a glimpse into what thrill-seekers can expect.

The ride, called the Looping Rocket hydroslide, sees riders step into a launch chamber and brace for a short countdown before the floor drops away — sending them down a 75m tube at speeds of up to 40kph.

It is part of the facility’s five eel-inspired slides.

The test run was carried out by hydroslide installers Swimplex Aquatics as part of the process to calibrate water flow rates, ensuring riders reach the end safely. The other four slides have also been tested ahead of public opening.

The point of view of going down the Looping Rocket hydroslide at Christchurch’s Parakiore Recreation and Sport Centre.

Crown Infrastructure Delivery (CID) project director Alistair Young said the successful testing is a major step forward.

“These slides are not only technically impressive, they’re a symbol of the fun and energy Parakiore will bring to the city. Testing ensures every ride is thrilling and safe, and it’s exciting to see this part of the facility come to life.”

Christchurch's Parakiore facility’s five eel-inspired slides are nearing completion. (File image)

The hydroslides are a stand-out feature of the 32,000m² indoor sports and aquatics facility.

They range from 9m to 12m high and are made up of about 800 fibreglass sections, some of which are translucent, allowing those lining up to see other riders zooming past.

Designed in collaboration with cultural advisers Matapopore Charitable Trust, the slides resemble silver-bellied eels in an eel pot. Young said the colour scheme will make the entrance to Parakiore instantly recognisable as Christchurch.

“These slides aren’t just fun, they’re meaningful. They reflect local stories and values in a way that’s authentic and exciting,” he said.

The progress inside Parakiore this month.

The other four slides include a Sphere Slide, where up to two riders on a raft can spin unpredictably in a large sphere, two additional body slides and a gentler slide from the 9m platform.

There is still no confirmed opening date for the centre, but user groups are preparing to test the facility from early November.

Both Christchurch City Council and CID say no handover or opening date has been set.

Athlete Al Wood with the Special Olympics flame earlier this month when it was lit to mark 100 days until the start of the event being held in the city in December.

The handover must happen before the council can take control of the site. The process involves thorough checks and testing before any operational fit-out can begin.

Once that is complete, the council will install equipment, train staff, and begin full-capacity testing – including the hydroslides, leisure pools, competition pool and indoor courts – ahead of a grand opening.

The first major event booked for the venue is the Special Olympics New Zealand National Summer Games, starting December 10. It will use the pool and courts for swimming and basketball competitions.

Despite the uncertainty, Special Olympics organisers are optimistic.

“We’re certainly turning towards a test event with them in early November,” said Liz Fitzgerald, events director. “We will be doing test events for both swimming and basketball, and definitely planning for our event from December 10. So all go.”

The time frame to complete the project has been repeatedly revised. It was delayed in 2023 due to legal issues, and throughout 2024 expected completion dates were updated.

In the 50m competition pool, installation of the 17m by 25m moveable floor has also been completed. This adjustable feature can be set anywhere from zero to 2.2m deep, allowing the pool depth to be tailored for different uses.