Adventure for Conical Hill soon to fly

The reality of flying down Conical Hill is gaining traction, with next month’s public consultation the first step towards the Fly Line being ready to roll in October 2021.

Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools and Spa General Manager Graeme Abbot said having more products for people visiting Hanmer Springs to enjoy, is the key thought behind this project.

“Having more activities in Hanmer Springs for visitors to enjoy will increase their dwell time, encourage them to stay a little longer, turn a day trip into an overnight stay.”

He said the ride will be priced for the domestic market.

With more than 50,000 people a year already walking the 550 metre summit perched at the northern end of the alpine village, there is good reason to expect Conical Hill user numbers to reach at least 60,000 once the Fly Line opens.

“This is about growth and tourism opportunities for Hanmer Springs.”

Mr Abbot added that at the moment, Hanmer Springs is very busy with domestic tourism, and retaining a positive outlook on the future is paramount.

“Once we’ve had the feedback from the public consultation process, we can progress onto the planning stages.”

That will include a publically notified Resource Consent and consultation with Kaikoura Runanga and Department of Conservation.

“Then we will evaluate the full business study, and make decisions around suppliers and contractors.”

While there is still got a significant amount of planning and consultation before the final decisions are made, Abbot said investment of this nature is hugely positive for the town and the wider community.

“The fly line will be a lift in business and a lift in visitors to the region”