Ohinemutu, Rotorua's oldest suburb, is frequented by tourists and has played host to royalty and many other important guests.
Most of us would agree a proposed revamp of the area is long overdue.
The Rotorua District Council is looking at giving one of the central city's most picturesque
spots a major makeover, an idea which has been greeted very positively by councillors and Ohinemutu residents.
The council says it won't do anything without the locals' blessing but residents The Daily Post has spoken to indicate improvements to the area will be warmly welcomed.
The idea - and it is currently only that - was raised with members of the council's Te Arawa standing committee and it was agreed the council would consult with residents about the possibility of upgrading the entranceways into the village, including building a Maori-style entryway feature.
Nothing has yet been put down on paper, with the council rightly taking the stance that it wants the residents to indicate what they want rather than their being told what they'll get.
This is an iconic part of our city, an area of great importance for Maori as well as important historically and environmentally, and anything that is done must be done just right.
While the idea is an exciting prospect which all Rotorua residents would welcome, any "makeover" Ohinemutu is given must be carefully done so as to preserve its cultural, historical and environmental character.
It is these characters which make it so special, and they must be preserved and guarded for future generations to enjoy.
