Information centre concepts explored

The concept designs being discussed for the replacement Coronation Park Information Centre. Supplied photos.

City councillors are looking at concept design options for a replacement Coronation Park visitor centre.

As well as design options, the briefing includes a summary of the strategic drivers for the proposed project and an update on work completed to date.

The briefing was apparently open to the public to attend, but was not advertised on the council website - as the council agreed to do last year when it changed its policy about briefings.

The briefing precedes a meeting planned for February 14 where elected members will make a decision about including the development of a proposed visitor information centre in the 2017/18 Annual Plan discussions.

The project will be a visible investment in the future of Tauranga's tourism industry and community, says councillor Max Mason.

'Tourism is New Zealand's biggest industry and significantly benefits Tauranga's economy with visitor expenditure averaging almost $2 million each day. A visitor information centre that properly represents our stunning region will secure this city's place in New Zealand's tourism market and drive continued growth in this sector.”

The Council has been working closely with Tourism Bay of Plenty and Jasmax Architects to define the requirements for a fit-for-purpose visitor centre and complete due diligence on site options. Consultation has occurred with Iwi, the Port of Tauranga, Police, the current lessee of 10 Salisbury Ave and Mount Mainstreet.

'The major tourism centres of the world have fit-for-purpose visitor information centres and the symbol is synonymous around the world. We are a destination rich in history and a community known for our manaakitanga. A purpose built centre where all visitors whether locals, domestic or international travellers feel welcome to visit would reinforce our reputation as one of the leading tourism destinations in NZ,” says Tourism Bay of Plenty CEO Kristin Dunne.

Following this briefing, a report will be prepared with associated recommendations and presented to Elected Members as part of the Annual Plan process. If the project is approved to go into the 2017/18 Annual Plan then Council and Tourism BOP will engage with tourism operators and the community about the plans.

More information about the project can be found at here and here.

If people have any questions they can contact Council on 07 577 7000.

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4 comments

Max Mason has lost the plot.

Posted on 01-02-2017 20:55 | By Accountable

The project will be a visible investment in the future of Tauranga's tourism industry and community, says councillor Max Mason.Tourism is New Zealand's biggest industry and significantly benefits Tauranga's economy with visitor expenditure averaging almost $2 million each day. A visitor information centre that properly represents our stunning region will secure this city's place in New Zealand's tourism market and drive continued growth in this sector. Did Mason get his figures from Priority One? That figure equates to seven hundred and thirty million dollars a year for Tauranga and is so untrue he should resign before he even starts. Will he expect the businesses in the CBD to continue to pay a tourism rate to pay for this new building? With the increase in visitor arrivals to the Mount will he now support the placement of parking meters in the shopping area and the beach?


Coronation Park

Posted on 02-02-2017 11:24 | By MOULTRIE

I note with concern that there seems to be no provision for the people of Mount Maunganui to be consulted about this proposal.Also seem to recall that there is no city councillor resident in the Mount! Talk to the people and take them with you.Ignore the Mounties at your peril.


Info centre blowout

Posted on 02-02-2017 12:42 | By red

From the concept photos, this building looks comparable to one of the extravagant churches we have in the bay! It would be good if it was a dual purpose building instead of being used solely for i-site uses. ie Acoustic Gigs or pop-up exhibitions!


Umbrella!

Posted on 04-02-2017 16:02 | By Mackka

The second design looks like a small box with a sun umbrella placed on top!! Let's have some common sense here - ensure all space is used wisely !


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