The Christchurch City Council is increasing fees at its facilities from 1 October for casual and concession entry fees.

The news follows the council’s decision to increase rates by 3.8 percent on average – a rise which is more than had initially been proposed.

Head of Recreation, Sports and Events Nigel Cox says all fitness, pools and multi membership fees are remaining the same, although casual and concession fees are going up by a small amount.

He said “we’ve tried to keep all increases as low as we can so our residents can stay active and connected with their communities through high-quality services and facilities. The increase is generally less than one dollar for casual entries.”

“New family packages for the hydroslides at QEII have been added, so the whole can enjoy the attractions for one simple fee, and a weekly direct-debit payment option is being introduced for pool, fitness and multi ‘flexi’ members, with a minimum three-month membership term.”

“We’ve also created a monthly fitness, pools and multi ‘fixed’ membership, which is good news for short term visitors to Christchurch or residents only wanting to join up to our recreation and sports facilities for a shorter period of time.”