Paved plaza and water feature for mall end of Tutanekai St

Artist’s impression of approximate design concept for new plaza on Tutanekai St in front of Rotorua Central mall.

A new water feature, public seating and decorative paving will form part of a new pocket plaza currently taking shape at the southern end of Tutanekai Street, in front of the entrance to Rotorua Central mall.

The project is a partnership between Rotorua Central’s iwi owners, Pukeroa Oruawhata Trust, and Rotorua District Council (RDC).

While the paved plaza is located on land owned by the council, its development costs are being funded by Pukeroa Oruawhata Trust.

Council Inner City Revitalisation Strategy portfolio leader, Councillor Karen Hunt, said the design will enhance the evolving and increasingly fresh new look of the inner city that is currently taking form.

“Importantly for us, this is a genuine partnership project between the council and iwi business, and an example of how things can be done through collaboration and pooling resources. Our Rotorua 2030 vision promotes exactly these sorts of joint programmes as a way of making progress,” Ms Hunt said.

Pukeroa Oruawhata chairman Malcolm Short said the trust was very pleased to be working hand-in-hand with the council on the project.

“The plaza will enhance the mall’s connectivity with the existing CBD by providing a modern and attractive environment with a strong visual link to the southern end of Tutanekai Street.”

Mr Short said the new water feature will include small geyser-like water spouts which can be adjusted in height and illuminated at night. He said there will also be public seating and a paved area for café customers alongside.

The project is expected to be completed by the end of April.

ENDS

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