The laneway removed the traditional distinction between footpath and road, with the expectation that pedestrians and drivers would co-exist peacefully.
Shirley James of Shirley's Photo Centre has been critical of the project for the disruption it's caused businesses. She said it was a relief to see it completed but thought it would take time for people to get used to the "shared" concept.
Over the road at Shanton, manager Tracey Cherrington said she was "very positive" about the project and loved the finished result.
"I'm very very happy. Yes there were people who were negative and yes it did slow down business (during construction). But look where we are now."
She said she had a customer from Tauranga who had stumbled upon the street party and questioned whether Whangarei was always so busy on a Friday evening.
"It's great for Whangarei, there's great ambience, and look at the turnout," she said.
