Meeting to review city revamp

Steve Chadwick

A meeting of the Rotorua Inner City Focus Group next week will update the city's business owners and the public on progress made revitalising Rotorua's inner city.

The meeting will also double as a "Meet and Greet" for the recently launched "Raising the Bar" campaign which will feature a visit by television master chef Ray McVinnie.

The evening function will include an introduction by Rotorua Mayor Steve Chadwick.

Inner City Focus Group spokesman Mike Steiner said the meeting would provide a chance to celebrate the achievements of recent months, talk about current and future initiatives and present some opportunities for businesses to become involved in.

"There's no doubt that action taken to bring new life to our inner city has been gathering real speed in recent months and, as a result, we're seeing a renewed buzz of vitality around town.

"The various projects completed or currently in progress have been very well-received by both our local businesses and the general public. People are noticing the changes, getting involved and feeling really good about the way their city is looking."

Mr Steiner said he was particularly proud of the collaborative effort between community and council.

"It's an exceptional example of how to pull together resources, ideas and enthusiasm so we get the best possible results.

"Next week's meeting gives us a chance to take stock of where we are and to talk about where we're going next," Mr Steiner said.

Raising the Bar is an initiative being run by a group of passionate Rotorua business people who want to help Rotorua become the best place in the country for friendly, efficient and high-level service.

The Inner City Focus Group meeting on Monday, June 16 will be in the Council Chamber at the Rotorua District Council Civic Centre from 5.30pm, with a 6pm presentation followed by an opportunity for people to mix and mingle.

All interested in attending the meeting are asked to pre-register with Brigitte Nelson by calling (07) 351 7057 or email brigitte.nelson@rdc.govt.nz.

All interested in Raising the Bar should email Kay Clarke at kay@stayandplaynz.com.