New playcentre building opens

Eager to check out the new playground, children attending the Frankton Playcentre and their parents got a warm welcome from Remarkables Primary School pupils and teachers at the official opening of the Frankton Playcentre's new premises on Wednesday.

The playcentre was moved from its former location at the corner of Allan Crescent and Lake Ave to temporary premises in McBride St in Frankton to make room for construction of the new Remarkables Primary School at the old playcentre site.

Frankton Playcentre president Andi Smillie declared open the playcentre's sparkling new, purpose-built facilities next to the school on Wednesday at a ceremony, which was also attended by Queenstown Mayor Clive Geddes, representatives from the Ministry of Education, local organisations and companies and playcentre member families.

"This is a fantastic community facility, which will benefit the families of the Wakatipu. We are grateful to the Ministry of Education for all their support through this process and I know the children are very excited to start back and enjoy playing in this great building," playcentre educator Nicky Thompson said.

The playcentre has about 50 children registered, with room for about 25 at each session. Opening hours are from 9am till noon, Monday to Friday.

Some children attended only one session a week, whereas others were there for several days and a few for the entire week, Ms Thompson said.

The centre is run by parents, who get training in playcentre education and development.

"The parents learn new skills about educating children while being there to watch their own child develop and grow, and they also get a support network, which often turns into lifelong friendships. The children get the joy of playing with each other," Ms Thompson said.

• Frankton Playcentre will hold an open day on Saturday from 10.30am to 1pm. A gold coin donation will go towards the centre. All are welcome.