Work on the Tikitapu (Blue Lake) wetlands project has reached the halfway mark with anticipation building for a smoother water skiing surface.
After three years fundraising, the Rotorua Water Ski Club started work last week on the floating wetland.
Club treasurer Paul Laing said the project, which would cost more than $300,000, was being built by a Maungatoroto company and involved weighing down 25 panels with 50 anchors. The project follows 10 years of debate among club members and other skiers who wanted to make the water on the slalom course consistent and smooth.
"We have a chunk of the anchor system in place, divers have spent most of the week putting in the anchors. They've assembled the pontoon and have been planting the native plants into the wetlands," Mr Laing said.
"The club is really excited by the whole project and are really looking forward to the next ski season for sure."