Mayor Neil Brown turned the first sod of earth for Ashburton's new mini golf course on Tuesday, using a 5-tonne mini excavator.

He climbed into the cab of the machine, owned by local business Grant Hood Contracting and used the controls to dig up several buckets of dirt, marking the official start of the project.

The outdoor mini golf course is being constructed at EA Networks Centre, on the north side of the carpark, and will have three levels.

Mayor Brown said it was great to have the project under way.

"This will be a free activity that we know lots of families and young people will enjoy, and it adds to the outdoor attractions at Council's sport and recreation centre.

"Once it's finished, people will be able to bring their own putters and balls down to play, or hire equipment from the centre. It’ll be a lot of fun."

The 18-hole course should be ready for play by summer.

People and Facilities Group Manager Sarah Mosley said Grant Hood Contracting moved in this week, excavating the site and beginning construction of retaining walls.

“The work area has been fenced off and they’ll be creating three levels for the holes. The flat area in front of the carpark will be for holes one to 11, and the other holes will be on higher terraces, looking down towards EA Networks Centre.”

It is the contractor’s first mini golf course, though the company was involved in construction of an outdoor golf course at Millbrook Resort.

The Mid Canterbury-themed mini golf holes are being designed and built by Creo, specialists in building play spaces. The holes will be made from synthetic turf and recycled rubber, suitable for the outdoor environment.

Ms Mosley said the holes would be constructed off site and delivered and installed two at a time.

Carparking at the EA Networks Centre will remain largely unaffected during the works, and the steps from River Terrace will also remain open for pedestrians.

Watch a concept video of how the mini golf course will look.