I usually avoid downtown but twice recently needed to go to the CBD. I was stunned by the emptiness, both times at 10am, Red Square was almost deserted. The All Blacks could have played a game of rugby there without disturbing anyone! My question is where are the downtown customers and how are the shops in the CBD coping?

However, on Saturday evening I was in the downtown area and saw the large amount of diners along The Strand enjoying a very sociable time.

So it appears Downtown Tauranga has become a huge restaurant with peak times 6pm to late!

Like many, my aversion with the city centre, is the parking meter hassle. I can shop in our satellite suburbs for free without having to watch the clock.

I'm sure our city councillors are aware of a free parking trial taking place in the CBD in Hastings. It began last November and is apparently working a treat. I'm sure that would work here if only City Hall would consider it!

Downtown needs to be more than a pleasant place to wine and dine in the evening!

R Bishop, Pyes Pa.


Editor's Note: Tauranga City Council is currently running it's ‘free after 3' parking deal, both for on and off-street and in parking buildings in Downtown Tauranga and at the Phoenix carpark at the Mount.