Cromwell youngsters will soon have a much-loved flying fox back, with Central Otago District Council confirming a replacement is due to be installed at Anderson Park Playground by Waitangi Day.

The flying fox was removed from the playground beside the police station in early December after safety issues were identified, leaving young park users disappointed over the summer period.

Matai Alexander said it felt like the flying fox had been gone for “forever” and described its absence as “terrible”.

“It was the whole thing that made everyone go to the park,” he said.

“I definitely want it to come back - three trillion per cent.”

There's no flying fox at the 'flying fox park'. Image: The Central App

For Fin Cowan, the playground has never been known by its official name.

“I call it the Flying Fox Playground,” he said.

Fin said one of the best parts was how the ride ended with a bump strong enough to send him back up the wire.

“It was really fun to go down,” he said.

Like Matai, Fin was eagerly waiting for the equipment to return.

“Because no other playgrounds in Cromwell really have a flying fox,” he said.

CODC is set to replace Cromwell's beloved flying fox in time for Waitangi weekend. Image: The Central App

CODC’s parks manager said the flying fox was expected to be reinstalled by February 6.

He said the structure was removed after staff identified damage to key components, including the trolley and cable.

“Staff noted the cable beginning to fray at the bottom of the flying fox and so had it removed to prevent further damage and any potential injury,” he said.

The damaged equipment was disposed of and a replacement ordered, however Christmas delivery times meant there was “a few weeks’ lead time”.

The replacement will be funded through existing council budget allocated for playground equipment upgrades and repairs.

While no formal complaints were received following the removal, the council did receive enquiries.

“Council received a couple of enquiries from members of the public asking why it was removed and when it would reopen,” the parks manager said.

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