The Paihia waterfront had a well needed makeover making it more user-friendly.
I have enjoyed Paihia's revamped waterfront for the first time this summer.
An area where there used to be a carpark was cleverly turned into greenspace late last year, creating an inviting park-like area that visitors are drawn to.
It is amazing what a few subtle changes have made.
Some subtle changes on Whangarei's Hihiaua peninsula have made a huge difference, too.
Mangroves have been cleared to open up the view to the river, and the lawn has been mowed.
On a large scale, it has given the area that sense of well-being a spruce-up gives a homeowner when the backyard gets a tidy. Nearby, a footbridge is reaching across the Raumanga Stream, and across the Hatea River, the walking/bike tracks leading you towards our new bridge are taking shape. Strolling on the peninsula in weather as spectacular as we have had this week, it is easy to see how Whangarei is slowly creating a world-class urban environment.
It does not take a huge amount of vision to see that one day, Whangarei's Town Basin will extend further towards Hihiaua, and it doesn't take a lot of imagination to be able to hear the hubbub of people enjoying themselves at cafes, restaurants and shops.
One day.
Accolades such as that accorded to Ruapekapeka Pa recently also helps connect those dots. The pa has been awarded an international Green Flag, a symbol of tourism excellence, identifying it as a premium visitor destination.
Since 2002 more than $200,000 has been spent on restoring the site with new signs, tracks, a carpark and the erection of a waharoa (carved gateway) created by master carver Te Warahi Hetaraka. In particular, the pa's rich military history makes it a must-see attraction.
A website will be launched next month.
Progress seems to shine in Northland's sun which also helps remind of the good things that we enjoy in our region.
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