Bayfair expansion means more options for Tauranga

An aerial view of how Bayfair could look post-expansion. Photo/Supplied

Who doesn't enjoy seeing new developments and having more options when it comes to eating and shopping?

Tauranga is set to get one of the Bay of Plenty's largest cinema complexes and a new alfresco dining area, which will be among 50 new retail stores as part of a massive $115 million development of the Bayfair Shopping Centre.

Bayfair Centre Manager Steve Ellingford says the investment in the development at Bayfair shows the measure of confidence in the centre and the Bay of Plenty region.

I am someone who still often goes to the cinema and am excited about more options of recliner chairs and while I'm unsure about a la carte dining because let's be honest - all I usually want is popcorn, I'll have to give it a go.

The changes are meant to provide an "exceptional cinema experience".

Having relocated from Western Australia, I'm no stranger to West Australian-based craft beer brewer Little Creatures and their pale ales, so I'm looking forward to them bringing a Fremantle-type alfresco dining experience to Tauranga.

I love having options on where to eat, drink and shop, so the introduction of more of everything is an exciting one.

The first stage of the development will be open in December 2018, right in time for next summer's influx of visitors to the region.

No doubt, there'll be plenty of people looking forward to the same things, especially those coming from out of town.