News Release

‘Project Big Splash’ Gets Underway

Rotorua, 13 May 2011 – The construction of Rainbow Springs’ new multi-million dollar attraction is officially underway.

Yesterday’s traditional blessing and symbolic ‘breaking of the ground’ onsite at the Rotorua park ignaled the start of construction of ‘’Project Big Splash’’, a high-tech water ride flowing through the ecological evolution of New Zealand.

Bishop Kingi from local Rotorua iwi Ngāti Whakaue, as traditional custodians of the land, performed the blessing on the site, which Ngai Tahu owned Rainbow Springs sits.

European based Intamin Amusement Rides has designed the new ride, adding it to their extensive portfolio of theme park attractions around the world, including those at Disneyland USA, Denmark, Germany, Taiwan and Movie World in Australia.

Stewart Brown, Rainbow Springs Project Director says, “While designed overseas, the ride will be constructed in Rotorua by New Zealand company Arrow International using local products. It will bring a welcome boost to the local job market, as well as employing more people once the ride is up and running.”

The project also includes construction of an outdoor 400-seat, free-flight bird show auditorium, an interactive children’s playground and a new reptile enclosure. The development is the largest single investment made in the park since it opened in 1932.

“The new-look Rainbow Springs will appeal to a broader audience, educating and exciting at the same time. It will also help enhance Rotorua’s profile as a destination to visit, not only within the domestic market but also overseas,” Mr Brown says.

The $10 million plus project has been many months in the planning and will open in early 2012.

John Thorburn, Ngai Tahu Tourism Chief Executive, owners of Rainbow Springs says, “This significant investment is a sign of Ngai Tahu’s confidence in Rotorua and the tourism industry in general.

“We’re very happy to see this project get off the ground and construction commencing on what will be an entertaining and unique enhancement for Rainbow Springs Wildlife Park. As one of New Zealand’s founding tourism attractions, and a 79-year strong history, it’s exciting to be part of this ambitious growth phase.”

Rainbow Springs Kiwi Wildlife Park is an icon of New Zealand tourism and has been open since 1932. Spread over 22 acres of Rotorua parkland, Rainbow Springs is a conservation and breeding haven for endangered New Zealand species such as Kiwi and tuatara. The park offers a unique wildlife experience for visitors, who can see animals in their natural environment, both during the day and night. Features of the award winning tourist attraction include New Zealand’s only ‘open to view’ Kiwi hatchery, and a range of wildlife including trout, tuatara and native birds.

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