The recently opened Wānaka Watersports Facility (WWSF) is in possible danger of flooding as the water continues to rise. In 1999 the water level reached a record high level of 281.3m which is why the Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLDC) has a minimum floor level of 281.9 — a hope to avoid any flood risk mitigation being required.

Alistair Madill from WWSF said the carpeted area of the new facility has a floor level of 282.1, so has no flood mitigation plan.

“The shed area has a floor level of 281.6m (below the QLDC level). That is why the flooring is FRP (with holes) to allow water in then out. The framing is treated for water exposure, as is the cladding. There is no internal lining. The steel structure is all hot dip galvanised. Generally any objects within the shed are made for water exposure (eg boat hulls) or, if not, would need to be raised above flood level,” said Madill. 

Whilst the rain will likely hit the 280m mark in the next 48 hours, that is still 1.3m short of the great 1999 flood. However, with the facility floor level at 282.1, the beautiful new rooms are within a whisker of the biggest flood of all in 1878 of 281.8m. 

However with more rain to come, the Trust is still keeping a watchful eye on the lake level.

Another watersports facility, the Wānaka Yacht Club was flooded in the basement by midday on Wednesday.