A popular activewear retailer is opening a permanent store in the Bay after a successful pop-up store in 2015.
Lululemon is opening its sixth North Island location in Mount Maunganui on Tuesday but will have its grand opening on December 22 and 23.
The Mount Maunganui store will be celebrating its close ties to the community during its opening by featuring work from local artist James Atutahi. Atutahi, known for his contemporary Māori art carvings will have one of his works as a feature piece of the store decor.
He will be doing live surfboard carvings at the store during the opening weekend on December 22 and 23.
The store also has a number of ambassadors from the local fitness community joining the team. Luke McGruer, from Mount Crossfit, will be sharing is ex-military, scuba diving and rock climbing experience, whilst Coka Klug from Yoga Tribe will be looking forward bringing her philosophy of 'thank you' to the lululemon collective.
Hana Tapiata will bring her knowledge of ancestral philosophies to the community, while Nigel Beach from Elemental Health brings his holistic approach to health and exercise.
Grand opening weekend festivities will include themed parties hosted by each ambassador over three days, giveaways, and live art drawings from artist Jamie Harkins. The new location will also offer complimentary community classes every week.