After two false starts where it barely lasted a couple of days due to changeable weather, Arrowtown’s recently restored Bush Creek rink reopened on Sunday with the likelihood it’ll last at least this week and possibly longer.
Below zero temps and clear skies made it "the perfect opportunity to make and retain the ice," says ‘rink leader’ Rebecca Dobson, one of a very small group of vollies who make the ice at night and open and close the gate each day.
Having lain in ruins for about 30 years, the rink reopened two years ago after a failed attempt to get it going the year before.
"The best time to skate is early morning and late afternoon before sundown, that’s when temps are the coldest down there and the ice is stable," Dobson says.
"It’s been great to see it used, kids have been coming before and after school for a skate — being outdoors in the fresh crisp air is a great way to start or finish the day.
"We are happy the community has embraced the area and is making the most of skating while it lasts."
Dobson says their goal’s to make improvements to the rink each year while also keeping it authentic — and always free.
