Just as World War II gunners took vantage posts for commanding views, fans will have a strategic focal point to see leg-pumping professional riders on Bluff Hill in Napier in this weekend's New Zealand Road Cycling Championship.
It is the sixth time the Big Save-sponsored event has been staged in Hawke's Bay but the first time the course encroaches the inner-city area.
Championship organisers, with the supported of the Napier City Council, have developed an exciting road course that will embrace an initial long loop into the rolling country near Taradale before returning for several laps of a spectacular 13km inner-city lap of Bluff Hill.
The focal point is based in the botanical gardens for best views and to create a fun environment.
"In all cycle races around the world, when you have a hill climb then you find lots of people to support," said event ambassador Julian Dean.