The plans for the Turangi revitalisation include improvements to the Turangi central business district and streets in the next three years. The concept for the revitalisation will be to create a more vibrant town centre and encourage both locals and travellers to enjoy what Turangi has to offer.

At the TTCB meeting on Tuesday 11 September, the board will decide whether to approve the proposed works before going to tender.

The first phase of the project will begin with the redevelopment of the main entrance into the town. The estimated cost of $400,000 was set aside for the revitalisation project and will come out of Council’s capital expenditure budget of $1.3 million over three years. Work is expected to begin later this year.

The project, conceived from the Southern Structure Plan consultation meetings, is themed to recognise the Tongariro River and the surrounding landscape. The plans have been inspired by the area’s natural features.

It is also hoped that the changes will slow traffic coming into Turangi from State Highway 1 onto Pihanga Road by creating the feel of a roundabout. The mall area will be spruced up over time.

Parties directly affected by the revitalisation have been informed of the plans. The project consists of four phases with the future work yet to be designed or approved.