Editorial: Get up and go, or lose

Spectators at the cricket, New Zealand Black Caps v South Africa, played at the Bay Oval. Photo: John Borren

I love it when major events are held in Tauranga. The city comes alive. The bars and restaurants are busy and the place has a vibrant atmosphere.

This week, people are excited not only about the prospect of a long weekend, but also the international cricket matches at Bay Oval in Mount Maunganui.

I'm not a massive fan of cricket, but I can understand the huge potential these events have for the city. I also don't mind spending the day relaxing with friends and watching major international events. There could be far worse ways to spend your time.

In yesterday's Bay of Plenty Times we reported how Tauranga's tourism heads were hoping the match would be the first step in establishing Tauranga as a major sporting destination.

Tuesday's One Day International cricket match was the first time the Black Caps had played in Tauranga and was the first major ODI for 20 years.

Image 1 of 7: Luke Ronchi.

About 2500 people were at Tuesday's game but several thousand more are expected at the next ODI, which will be played tomorrow.

City leaders will be looking at these events closely and working out the monetary benefits for the Bay and how we can maximise their potential.

It isn't only sports events which are set to liven up the city. Big music acts are headed to Tauranga, but with that comes a warning about support.

If people don't buy tickets and go along, promoters warn they won't bring other acts here.

The warning was issued last week, when it was announced reggae legend Jimmy Cliff was scheduled to perform in Tauranga next year.

Major international acts often bypass Tauranga as a tour or concert location, but venues and promoters are hoping that will change. Notable high-profile acts who have performed in Tauranga include the Beach Boys and Chicago in 2004 and Meatloaf in 2011.

Promoter Jackie Sanders, who is bringing Cliff to Tauranga, says it is a great location to bring international acts and residents can expect more to come in the future, but only if people get out to support them.

Tauranga and Bay residents need to get into the spirit of things and support these events, be it sport or music. If we don't, we run the risk of losing them and the financial benefits they would bring to the region.