45 days to go until QEII splash down!

The countdown to the opening of the new QEII recreation and sport centre is on, with just 45 days to go until the doors of the multimillion-dollar complex open.

Today media were given a sneak peak of the new $38.6 million centre, which has been built to replace some of the facilities lost when the earthquake-damaged QEII Centre was demolished.

Designed with input from the community, the new QEII recreation and sport centre boasts an impressive array of aquatic facilities, including a 130-metre long hydroslide, a 25-metre lap pool, a leisure pool with a lazy river channel and water toys, a learn-to-swim pool, a hydrotherapy pool, a spa, sauna and steam room.

It also has a fitness centre, a café, meeting rooms, and enough parking for 200 vehicles and 160 bikes.

The new centre is going to be officially opened on 31 May so the public can make the most of the new facilities over Queen’s Birthday weekend.

“People living in the east have waited a long time for replacement aquatic facilities but we’re on the home straight now and close to having construction of the centre completed,’’ says Christchurch City Council Head of Recreation, Sports and Events John Filsell.

“Work on the centre has progressed ahead of schedule and we can’t wait to welcome people through the doors and to see them enjoying the new facilities. It is going to be a major milestone for the east and cause for celebration,’’ Mr Filsell says.