Water play area’s grand opening in time for summer

Just in time for the school holidays.

A crowd of more than 80 people celebrated the formal opening of the new water play area at the Oamaru Public Gardens this week.

The design was modelled after the Waitaki River, with Lakes Benmore and Aviemore represented.

The moulded seals also returned after a refresh by Oamaru artist Wicksey.

Waitaki mayor Gary Kircher officiated with brothers James and George Murray, both 9, invited to take the first turn on one of the water features.

The opening was very special, Mr Kircher said.

"It’s been an ongoing work in progress but just seeing all the families, all the little kids from babies through to early teens just getting in there and enjoying it and all the fun and laughter, it was very positive."

He said it would be good to see it used in summer and he thanked all who had helped the transformation.

A final piece of the puzzle, the swing, will be opened when groundwork is completed.