Meropa Casino and Entertainment World, which introduces a blend of African tradition and up market sophistication to the Far North, has opened in Pietersburg/Polokwane, amid a fanfare of colour and ceremonial glitz.

This R208 million development is the biggest single tourism investment ever to be made in the province.

Marketing Manager Duncan Pollock has no doubts about the future of this complex, built on a magnificent 80-hectare site just south of the Capital of the North.

"With the heritage of Sun International behind the project, it is destined not only to be a success, but to become a thriving node of development in the area. It will offer its guests everything they have come to expect from an international casino, and a few local surprises of its own," he declared on the eve of the official opening.

Apart from the casino itself, the complex has a cultural fair and market with an open-air amphitheatre for festivals and tribal dancing, a butterfly park and insectarium, a bird and reptile park, go-kart tracks, adventure golf, Magic Company arcade, steakhouses, restaurants, fast food outlets, a tourism information centre, a 102 room hotel and a conference centre.

The Wild Thingz Park promises to leave most visitors dumbstruck, as it will, among other things, boast some of Africa's largest eagles, as well as other beautiful indigenous birds, against a backdrop of waterfalls, dams and reeds.

Meropa General Manager Steve Hight had the last say, in summarising the potential of the place. "We are all very excited with this new addition to the Sun International family. There is no doubt that every member of the family will be spoilt for choice and assured of a great time," he enthused.