IceInLine’s new indoor curling rink officially opened in Alexandra in late May. A helping hand financially from a number of funders, including the Otago Community Trust and a whole lot of community spirit helped Central Otago’s newest curling rink project get over the line.

Stakeholders large and small involved in bringing IceInLine’s new indoor curling rink to fruition enjoyed a wonderful opening weekend. The opening gave the community a chance to try their hand at the sport and it is great to see that since the opening, local schools have relished the opportunity to use the facility and learn the art of the winter sport. 

Central Lakes Trust, Otago Community Trust and Lotto NZ all contributed signficant grants. However, IceInLine chairman Murray Miller said many other groups and individuals also supported the new facility, by making donations of money, materials and services.

Local businesses behind the scenes probably contributed a combined $80,000 in products and services to help complete the project.

‘‘We were amazed at how the community got behind it.’’

The new rink is estimated to have cost around $500,000.

Otago Community Trust trustees and staff had the privledge of visiting the site in late 2020 during its build stage and learnt about some of the challenges faced along the way. The onset of the Covid-19 pandemic forced the cancellation of planned visits from international engineers and as a result a lot of the consultation had to be done remotely.

Despite the additional time completing the project and the challenges faced, it is great to hear that the rink is already proving very popular. 

The new facility will not only mean the season will last longer but different types of curling will also be offered. From crampet, which is traditionally played outside, to hack curling, which can now be part of the mix.