Splash Planet | Napier Hastings

Splash Planet is a popular water park located in Hastings, in the Hawke's Bay region of New Zealand. This family-friendly attraction offers a wide range of fun water activities, making it one of the top summer destinations in the region. It combines the thrill of water slides and pools with the relaxing atmosphere of a well-maintained park, making it a great place for both relaxation and adventure.

Overview and Location

Splash Planet is set within the beautiful surroundings of Hastings, about a 30-minute drive from Napier. It is located near the Karamu Stream and features both indoor and outdoor water attractions, making it an ideal place for a day of family fun, especially during the warm summer months.

The park’s unique atmosphere combines tropical landscaping with an extensive array of water-based activities. Visitors can enjoy water slides, lazy rivers, wave pools, and much more while taking in the scenic beauty of the surrounding area.

Key Attractions

Water Slides

• Splash Planet offers a variety of water slides for thrill-seekers of all ages. Some of the slides are fast and steep, offering an exhilarating ride, while others are gentler and perfect for younger children or those looking for a more relaxed experience. Notable slides include:
  • The Tornado: A high-speed ride that takes you through a giant funnel before splashing into the pool below.
  • Dragon Slide: A winding slide that provides a fun and exciting ride for all ages.
  • Speed Slides: These fast slides provide a thrilling drop and splash, perfect for those looking for an adrenaline rush.

Wave Pool

• One of the park’s major attractions is its wave pool, where visitors can enjoy simulated ocean waves, creating a fun and dynamic swimming experience. The waves vary in intensity, providing an experience similar to being at the beach, but with the convenience of being in a controlled environment.

Lazy River

• For those looking to relax, the Lazy River is the perfect option. Visitors can float along the gentle current in an inflatable ring, enjoying the warm sun and scenic views as they drift along the waterway.

Kidz Kingdom

• Kidz Kingdom is a dedicated area for younger children, featuring shallow pools, smaller slides, and gentle water features. It’s a safe, fun environment where toddlers and young kids can enjoy water play without the intensity of the larger rides. The area is designed with colorful, playful themes to appeal to younger visitors.

Splash Zone

• The Splash Zone is another popular attraction for families, featuring interactive water play structures like fountains, sprays, and water cannons. Children can run through the water and get drenched by playful sprays from all directions.

Lap Pool

• The Lap Pool is an option for those who want to swim some laps or enjoy a quieter swimming experience. It’s a more relaxed environment compared to the other more exciting attractions, and it is perfect for those seeking a more traditional swimming pool experience.

Whirlpool Spas

• For those in need of relaxation, Splash Planet features whirlpool spas where visitors can unwind and enjoy the soothing effects of warm, bubbling water. These are ideal for adults or anyone looking for a break from the more active water attractions.

Indoor and Outdoor Attractions

Splash Planet combines both indoor and outdoor water features, allowing visitors to enjoy the park in any weather. The outdoor attractions, such as the slides, wave pool, and lazy river, are perfect for sunny days, while the indoor pool area offers a great option for those who prefer to stay out of the sun or visit on cooler days.

Family-Friendly Facilities

• Picnic Areas: There are numerous shaded picnic tables throughout the park, making it easy for families to pack a lunch and enjoy a relaxing break during their visit.
• Cafés and Food Stalls: The park has several cafés and food stalls offering a variety of snacks, meals, and refreshing drinks to keep visitors energized throughout the day. This includes options like ice creams, hot dogs, and pizzas, as well as healthier snacks like fruit and smoothies.
• Changing Rooms and Lockers: Splash Planet offers changing rooms and lockers for visitors to store their belongings securely while they enjoy the water attractions. The park is designed with convenience in mind, so guests can have a comfortable and enjoyable visit.

Special Events and Programs

Splash Planet often hosts special events and seasonal programs that cater to families, schools, and local communities. This includes:

• School Holiday Events: Splash Planet often runs special events during school holidays, offering fun activities and competitions for children.
• Birthday Parties: The park offers packages for birthday parties, allowing children and families to celebrate their special day at the water park with added features like private areas, food, and personalized activities.
• Night-time Events: During the summer months, the park occasionally offers special evening events where guests can enjoy the water park under the stars, often with themed activities or live entertainment.

Safety and Lifeguards

The park places a strong emphasis on safety and has trained lifeguards on duty at all times to ensure that visitors can enjoy the attractions with peace of mind. The water depths are carefully monitored, and clear signage indicates safe zones for swimmers of all levels. The park is designed to accommodate guests of all ages and abilities, with gentle areas for toddlers and more intense attractions for thrill-seekers.

Admission and Opening Hours

• Opening Hours: Splash Planet is typically open from November to April, aligning with the summer season in New Zealand. It is open daily, with hours varying depending on the time of year, so visitors should check the website for up-to-date information.
• Admission Fees: The park operates on an entry fee basis, with separate rates for adults, children, and families. Discounts are often available for groups, and children under a certain age can enter for free.

Conclusion

Splash Planet is a fantastic destination for families and anyone looking to enjoy a day of water-based fun in Hawke's Bay. Whether you’re looking for an adrenaline rush on the water slides, a relaxing float in the lazy river, or a safe place for children to splash around, Splash Planet offers something for everyone. With its combination of exciting water activities, family-friendly facilities, and scenic location, it remains one of New Zealand's top water parks, perfect for a fun day out with friends and family.