Artificial ice rink returns to CBD

A chilly Northern Hemisphere tradition is coming to Blenheim, with an artificial ice-skating rink returning to the Blenheim CBD later this month.

The state-of-the-art ‘The Ice Skate Tour’ artificial ice rink will be at Liz Davidson Park in Blenheim from 23-25 January between 10am and 5pm each day, weather allowing.

Arts, Cultural and Heritage Manager Nicola Neilson said the attraction was part of Marlborough District Council’s new Space Create initiative, designed to invigorate the Blenheim and Picton town centres, a common desire that the Council has heard.

“Space Create is all about activating underused and vacant spaces with creative and energetic projects, and this travelling experience is a great fit with this. We look forward to seeing young and young at heart enjoying it.

“It looks like ice, has almost the same gliding capacity as natural ice while being surrounded by inflatable boarding and helmets and gloves are provided as part of the experience for those without their own.”

Each ice-skating session is at least 30 minutes and costs just $2 per person which goes to Blenheim Scouts as a fundraiser. Socks are compulsory and the smallest hireable skates are size 10.

“This is a great example of the type of recreation-based activities that bring energy, visibility, and fresh ideas into the CBD”, says Nicola.

“We hope to see many more exciting innovations such as temporary public art, installation and community-led projects popping up in our CBD in 2026. It’s the perfect way to celebrate the start of the new year, Northern Hemisphere style.”

For more details go to the Marlborough app here.