I visited Matakana Island the day after the court found in favour of no private development on the island. There were to be celebrations.
However, one of our visiting group suggested one or two Fiji type resorts would be a good idea to utilise the pristine beaches without having the cost of air fares. This would bring some income for the locals. I have no idea how this would be financed, but I do know the enterpreneureal and catering skills are aleady on the island.
This may not be a popular idea, but neither was my suggestion of a revolving restaurant on top of the Mount to help the local economy.

Betty Cole, Mt Maunganui.