I have just returned from a short visit to Napier; it was a pleasant and surprising experience and so different to Tauranga in two major respects: There was absolutely no litter!
The streets were clean, as were the reserves and children's playgrounds. Napier has several fountains and other water features including children's paddling pools. – nowhere could I find a single plastic bottle or can.
There were no polystyrene takeaway cups or empty KFC and MacDonalds packets. It was simply stunning.
The other positive about Napier is that nowhere at all could I find any tagging or graffiti, even on toilet walls! I was so impressed that I visited the Council offices to congratulate them and was told that six people were fully employed to pick up all rubbish every day, including weekends.
I think this is an excellent use of rate-payers money and would urge our council to immediately adopt a similar policy. Visitors from cruise ships visiting Tauranga and Napier on successive days couldn't possibly fail to see the huge difference in cleanliness.
Regarding the total lack of tagging – I was told that it had been a problem in Napier until a very strict by-law was initiated clearly warning that any offender would be dealt with very severely with no excuses accepted. If tagging is discovered it is immediately eradicated by a qualified operator paid for by the council even on privately- owned property. Good on you Napier.

Noel Davenhill, Tauranga.