Launch pad opens at Lake Hood, Canterbury
By local democracy reporter Jonathan Leask:
Ashburton’s deputy mayor was first down the new flying fox and now she's been the first to use the new jumping platform at Lake Hood.
Liz McMillan and some eager volunteers were the first to launch off the purpose-built tower at an officially opening event on Friday morning.
Despite the autumnal weather, the water wasn’t too cold, McMillan said.
“But I think it will be very popular in the summer months.”
With the community always asking for more activities for youth, the diving platform provides another option at Lake Hood.
“I think it will be pretty popular with kids and teenagers and even the young adults, and probably the young-at-heart adults too."
The platform is a use-at-your-own-risk facility.
Infrastructure and open spaces group manager Neil McCann said jumpers needed to be confident swimmers to access the platform, then climb a ladder to either a 2.5m or 4m high jumping-off point and swim out.
“The jumping platform is in a 4m deep body of water, with no lifeguard supervision.
“There is a lower gradient entrance and exit beach and emergency climb-out ropes on the steeper gradient sides.
“The main safety rule is that jumpers need to ensure the water below is clear of others before they leap off.
“If everyone sticks to the rules, there shouldn’t be problems.”
The platform is in a separate body of spring-fed water at the northern end of the new lake extension – so is not under the same algal bloom warning as the main lake.
The platform and surrounding water would eventually be incorporated into the new lake as it expanded.
“But right now it is separate and water quality testing in the jumping platform’s pond shows no cyanobacteria is currently present.”
The platform was built to attract people who were currently jumping off Lake Hood canal bridges.
“Jumping off those bridges is a safety concern for council as boats and other watercraft could be in the area, so we’ve provided a purpose-built alternative which will generate a lot of fun and be another attraction for the lake.”
The area around the platform is being developed so people can sit and have a picnic while they watch the action or supervise youngsters.
The platform was constructed by the council, in conjunction with Ashburton Contracting Limited, using $35,000 from the Government's Better Off Funding.
Poll: Should the government levy industries that contribute to financial hardship?
As reported in the Post, there’s a $30 million funding gap in financial mentoring. This has led to services closing and mentors stepping in unpaid just to keep helping people in need 🪙💰🪙
One proposed solution? Small levies on industries that profit from financial hardship — like banks, casinos, and similar companies.
So we want to hear what you think:
Should the government ask these industries to contribute?
-
59.8% Yes, supporting people is important!
-
25.9% No, individuals should take responsibility
-
14.4% ... It is complicated
A Neighbourly Riddle! Don’t Overthink It… Or Do?😜
Do you think you know the answer? Simply 'Like' this post if you know the answer and the big reveal will be posted in the comments at 2pm on the day!
If you multiply this number by any other number, the answer will always be the same. What number is this?
Have you got New Zealand's best shed? Show us and win!
Once again, Resene and NZ Gardener are on the hunt for New Zealand’s best shed! Send in the photos and the stories behind your man caves, she sheds, clever upcycled spaces, potty potting sheds and colourful chicken coops. The Resene Shed of the Year 2026 winner receives $1000 Resene ColorShop voucher, a $908 large Vegepod Starter Pack and a one-year subscription to NZ Gardener. To enter, tell us in writing (no more than 500 words) why your garden shed is New Zealand’s best, and send up to five high-quality photos by email to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz. Entries close February 23, 2026.
Loading…
