Viewing platform a hit for most

John Hannah from Christchurch thought the platform was a great place to take photos from. Photo / Paul Taylor

Size is not an issue it seems when it comes to the newly built viewing platform on Napier's Marine parade.

Hundreds of people have taken a stroll along the concrete platform which stops just shy of the water.

The $1.4 million structure caused a stir among locals who were disappointed it did not extend further into the ocean like a traditional pier.

Napier City Council chief executive Wayne Jack said the council never intended to build a pier. "It would be irresponsible of Napier City Council to undertake that kind of development as it would be extremely costly to ratepayers," he previously said.

Napier resident Graeme Liddy has seen hundreds of people using the concrete platform to take in the view since it opened on December 22.

Mr Liddy said in his 26 years in Napier he did not know of another development that attracted so much attention in such a short space. He had watched the construction from his Napier Hill home and was now enjoying watching the crowds make the most of it.

When Hawke's Bay Today visited the platform the majority of people were praising the structure. Christchurch resident, John Hannah said it was a very good addition to the beachfront.

"I have been here both nights and people were just using it all the time. It is very popular."

He thought it was great as it was.

"It is quite a nice surprise and is architecturally pleasing to see from the other end looking through," Mr Hannah said.

Mike Bauckham said it was awesome.

"It puts you right among the energy of the surf and definitely gives you an appreciation of nature."

However, British tourist, Graeme Leigh still thought it was a wasted opportunity.

"They could have made it twice the length, with a glass bottom. When they did the Angel of the North in the UK, everybody complained that it cost 800,000. People travel to see it and that's what could have happened here," Mr Leigh said.

The 67-metre-long structure features a canopy-style roof designed by Graham Weaver.