Clever new name for New Zealand’s biggest aquatic thrill ride
Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools and Spa has officially named its new 13.5-metre aquatic thrill ride, after a public competition attracted more than 2,000 suggestions.
It will be known as Conical Thrill – a clever play on the name of one of the village’s most well-known natural attractions, Conical Hill.
The name was voted the favourite of a short list in online polls that attracted around 10,000 votes. The other names shortlisted were Hanmer Half Pipe, Tower of Tamatea andCloud Rider.
General Manager Graeme Abbot says it’s great to have the name locked in.
“Conical Thrill is a great name and was an early favourite in the public voting. It’s a great nod to Conical Hill – a landmark we all love with its amazing panoramic views.”
Construction is well underway on the site for the new slide.
“There was much excitement recently when the slide arrived in a shipping container ready to be installed. It’s in 168 pieces so is like a giant 3-dimensional jigsaw!” says Graeme.
Conical Thrill will open to the public in November. It is part of a $4.5 million development with five new thermal pools, the Cascade Pools, also under construction at the award-winning complex.
The name was suggested by eight different members of the public – each will win an Annual Swim Pass to the complex. One of the winners, Juliet Dalley is delighted.
“Hanmer Springs is such a magical place. My husband and I spent a lot of time there as young people and still love visiting. The slide looks amazing and I love a play on words, so the name just came to me. The funny thing is that, at my age, I doubt I will ever go on the slide!” says Juliet (who is in her mid-50s).
Graeme Abbot
Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools and Spa
0274 360 686
