Reef Garden opening draws near

The latest Marine Parade development, the Marine Parade Reef Garden, is set to officially open at the end of the month. Photo/ Warren Buckland.

A day filled with entertainment and music will be held at the end of the month to celebrate Marine Parade's newest development.

Napier City Council announced that the new Marine Parade Reef Garden was near completion and staff tested the water-play area and lighting last week.

Chair of the Marine Parade Redevelopment Committee Keith Price praised the design work undertaken by council and contractors.

"I think it looks spectacular. The Reef Garden provides a highly usable space for adults, teens and kids."

The area of land between the Sunken Gardens and Bay Skate will feature artwork by Jacob Scott, a whalebone sculpture, a reflection pool and enchanting 'bubble ups' along the pathway. There will also be a community basketball court, seating, landscaping and drinking fountains.

Mr Price said it was a huge asset for both the community and those whovisit Napier.

"With spring most certainly in the air, I hope we see masses of residents out in force not only for our Fun Day but in the warm months ahead."

Director community services Antoinette Campbell said Marine Parade was the jewel in Napier's crown and it was exciting to see years of work so close to completion.

"There have been a number of unexpected delays with this project and that's certainly been frustrating, but I'm confident that the results are going to be well worth it when we reopen."

The Family Fun Day will be held on Saturday August 26 from 12pm-2pm in the Reef Garden next to Bay Skate.

There will be music, prizes, bouncy castles and entertainment as well as stars of the Taylor Hawks checking out the new outdoor basketball court. Adam Green from The Hits Hawke's Bay will act as MC.

All Napier City Council facilities along the Parade, MTG, Par 2 MiniGolf, Bay Skate and The National Aquarium of New Zealand, will offer half price entry throughout the day