Kaitāia’s New Town Square Set to Partially Open for Christmas Celebration, New Zealand

Contractors in Kaitāia are making significant progress on the construction of the new town square, with parts of the project set to open for public use by Christmas. While the entire town square won’t be completed until the end of February, locals and visitors will be able to enjoy some of the infrastructure, such as seats, shade umbrellas, and a portion of the stage, during the holiday period. The project is the final stage of the Te Hiku o te Ika Revitalisation Open Spaces Project, aimed at transforming the town and surrounding areas. However, due to factors like the upcoming holiday season and awaited materials for waka foundations and planters, the completion timeline has been extended. Project spokeswoman Andrea Panther assured that the project is still on track and that the security fences will only be temporarily removed for the Christmas period to accommodate the anticipated influx of people. The installation of the beloved mosaic tile wall, created by approximately 500 individuals in 1997, is also a part of the project, although its exact placement is still being determined. Contractors have been working diligently to complete as much work as possible leading up to Christmas. The Kaitāia town square initiative is co-funded by Kanoa, the Government’s Regional Economic Development and Investment Unit, and the council, with financial support secured through the Long Term Plan. Additionally, the project has provided employment opportunities for local companies involved in the construction process.++