Bluebiyou restaurant on the beach at Papamoa is in new hands and undergoing a gradual revamp.
Blenheim real estate salesman and auctioneer John Davis enjoyed his visit to the restaurant about 12 months ago so much, he bought the business.
"It's a great spot, the only licenced restaurant on the beach from
the Mount to the eastern end of Papamoa.
"And its in need of a bit of a makeover," he says, outlining his and nephew Al Davis' intentions.
So far they have replaced the slatted dining deck area with a polished hardwood floor.
The next step is to replace the rolled-down plastic shades in that area with bi-fold windows.
The walls have been redone - insulated and lined.
The men are confident their experience in business - John's 40 years and Al's 25 - will shine through as they work on changing the lay-out, shifting the entrance from the western side to the centre front of the building.
A new verandah is planned on the west side, adjoining the bar.
One thing that wont be allowed to slip is the menu. Whitebait will remain a regular specialty, says Al, and seafoods will remain a strong point as the summer fare is being settled.
Wines will be predominantly New Zealand, with local vintages promoted.
The men are keen to promote wider use of their function room.
"We are happy to hear from any group, club or family wanting to book it."
Among their plans are opening an early morning coffee stop, with muffins or breakfast, for early morning walkers who stroll the beach about the time most of us leave for work.
