An initial phase of a new Honolulu attraction with offerings that include a go-kart track, climbing wall and arcade game room is slated to open Saturday on a former industrial site in Kakaako owned by Kamehameha Schools.

The project, dubbed The Groove Hawaii, has been in the works for more than a year and was approved by the Hawaii Community Development Authority last March.

Billy Balding, a local extreme sports athlete who headed development of the project on three acres fronting Ala Moana Boulevard near Kakaako Makai Gateway Park, said there were a lot of permitting and property upgrading challenges but that he is glad to realize most of the vision he had for the run-down property and former car dealership.

"We’re really geared up," he said.

The one-third-mile-long outdoor go-kart track is the largest in Honolulu and features a viewing grandstand, lights for night racing and gas-powered machines that can go up to 60 miles per hour.

Other elements slated to open Saturday are children’s carnival rides (a miniature Ferris wheel, swings and a small carousel), food service, tours on Segways and a "party bike," or rolling bar powered by pedals attached to bar stools.

A vertical wind tunnel that simulates sky diving, a seated zip line-type ride and a miniature golf course are planned additions.

However, a couple of other elements originally envisioned by Balding — a stationary surfing wave and skateboard park — faced problems and aren’t part of the current plan for the site being leased from Kamehameha Schools.

Balding said the Groove is primarily aimed at local residents as a spot for entertainment, birthday parties and other group events. Some offerings also will appeal to visitors, such as the guided tours on the Segways and the rolling bar.

Tours on the 15-passenger party bike include a 2 1/2-hour ride downtown to learn about historic buildings in Honolulu and a two-hour ride visiting different bars and restaurants.

Segway rides offered include an introduction challenge course on the Groove site and trips to Point Panic, Magic Island and downtown.

Balding said creating the Groove cost several million dollars with the investment in equipment and renovating the property that included a warehouse dating from 1946. "We had to get through a lot of plumbing and electrical work," he said. "It was a prime piece of property that was underutilized."

Hours of operation are planned for 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily.