Kids get first run on Auckland's coolest ice rink

Friday, 17 June 2016

Schoolkids enjoy the fun at the ice rink now set up in Auckland's Aotea Square.

Auckland's city centre seems to have frozen over, attracting skating, sliding and cold weather enthusiasts alike.

The Aotea Square Ice Rink opened on Friday, and will remain a frosty attraction until July 24.

Bus-loads of school children were given first run on the fresh ice, before opening it up to the public at midday.

17062016 News Photo:Lawrence Smith/Fairfax NZSchool kids enjoy the fun at the ice rink now set up in Auckland's Aotea Square.

The 30x16m square metre rink, installed for the fifth year in a row, is once again accompanied by an exhilarating 35-metre-long ice slide, which is double-laned - ideal for racing on inflatable tubes.

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But unlike previous years, organisers are promoting a 'Wild on Ice' weekend (June 18-19), complete with life size polar bears, penguins, and seals.

And to sweeten the deal, organisers will donate $1 for every skater to the Auckland Zoo Conservation Fund.

Also new this year will be a stunning light display, adding to the square's icy atmosphere.

The rink is part of the winter wonderland festivities that are expected to attract over 20,000 people to Aotea Square during the six week programme.

It will be open from 10am in school holidays and on the weekend and 12pm at other times, to 10pm, seven days a week. Ticketing information is available here.

There is a Penguin Kid's Zone which gives beginner skaters a chance to find their feet in a smaller, enclosed area, before they graduate to the main rink.

It is fully covered so you can skate in any weather - perfect for the young, and young at heart.

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