New Zealand’s first “trapdoor” hydroslide which propels adrenaline seekers at 40kmh has been unveiled as a key part of Christchurch’s new post-quake Metro Sports Facility. Plans for the highly-anticipated $300 million leisure centre's hydroslide tower complex were released on 13th December 2019 by Ōtākaro, the Crown-owned company delivering the central city anchor projects that the Government committed to after the 2010-2011 Canterbury earthquakes.

The plans show five water slides, including the 12.6m-high “Looping Rocket” in which riders stand on a floor that suddenly drops away, sending them hurtling down the slide at around 40kmh. The “Sphere Slide” will see one or two riders using an inflatable raft spun around in the sphere, not knowing which way they'll be facing for the rest of the 125m ride. Another slide, starting at the lower 9m platform will be slower and feature more gradual turns for less confident riders. Ōtākaro, Christchurch City Council and Matapopore have worked closely on the design of the hydroslide tower, which will be unique with its black and grey coloured tubes. Ōtākaro chief executive John Bridgman said the plans' release marks the first six months' construction of the facility which will be run by the Christchurch City Council and expected to open in early 2022. (2020/01, 183G)