Former Napier city councillor and academic Robin Gwynn believes Marine Parade has the potential to be a waterfront wonderland.
However, Mr Gwynn said it comes down to a matter of cost and what was realistic.
"In an ideal world where I could recreate, I'd like to see Marine Parade change so it wasn't one straight-lined road."
He said he would like to see it wind toward the sea where it could be truly developed.
"It could become a really wonderful area but it requires a rethink.