Construction of the new Queenstown Skate park is due to commence next month, Queenstown Lakes District Council project manager Russell Engelke said.

The new Queenstown Gardens Skate Park would be built in the Queenstown Gardens, replacing the aging skate park in the gardens.

"We are hoping that the new skate park will be open by Christmas," Mr Engelke said.

Designed by locals from Queenstown, along with top New Zealand skate park designer, Jason Parkes, the unique new facility would consist of a plaza-type street area and a triple peanut bowl replicating a swimming pool.

"It will also feature coloured and decorative concrete, which is poured on site to give a smooth finish, and some low lighting features," Mr Engelke said.

Costing $300,000 to construct, the council had budgeted $200,000 for this project.

"The remainder is coming from a number of trusts and fund-raised money by the local club Wakatipu Skateboarders Incorporated.

"Central Lakes Trust has contributed $55,000 and the Community Trust of Southland $25,000. The Club has raised $5000, leaving another $15,000 to be raised," Mr Engleke said.

The new park when completed would be 3.5 times the size of the current skate facility in the gardens.

ENDS

For further information please contact Russell Engelke 03 441 0499.

By: Tamah