Struggling Mount Maunganui businesses need help to thrive – Editorial
It’s been a grim year for some Mount Maunganui businesses.
Those near the base of Bay of Plenty’s beloved Mauao have been hit particularly hard since January 22’s landslide that killed six people and ruined countless lives.
They lost customers and money and some closed. Some must have lost hope. It must have been stressful.
Fenced-off Mauao isn’t the same. It remains a visible reminder that the area is not what it used to be. It also reminds people of that fateful day.
But businesses, to their credit, are fighting back. Summer is just weeks away, and they need a strong, vibrant season to kickstart themselves.
A Local Democracy Reporting article last week outlined how businesses are renovating, rebranding, launching new services and trying to stay positive as they prepare for summer.
These Adams Ave and Marine Parade businesses are adapting to survive amid a sharp decline in foot traffic.
Lital Cafe owner Michelle Craig says businesses have had to “suck it up, sharpen, innovate and look at other revenue streams”.
She reports that cafe Mount Break renovated, cafe and burger bar Pronto refreshed and upgraded its premises, and she merged Beach Hut into her other cafe, Lital.
Lital and several neighbouring businesses have signed up to Uber Eats to reach customers beyond the area.
Pronto is at least 40% down compared with previous years, with owner Bhasti Patel describing it as “the toughest time in the Mount”.
The Coffee Club reports spending is down 38% on average and its regulars are the only thing keeping the business going.
Moana Food Market, which had just opened when the tragedy struck, has only just scraped through.
Pizza spot Rustica closed for five months and aims to reopen this month.
Love The Mount – Mount Maunganui Business Association put $30,000 into a campaign to attract more visitors.
People are waiting for a great summer.
The events calendar is busy, including the World Triathlon Cup and other major beach events.
The Mount is one of the country’s top summer destinations. It is close to Auckland, Waikato, eastern Bay of Plenty and central North Island. It is also a great holiday spot for people who live further afield.
It offers plenty, including great cafes, restaurants, pubs and a vibrant downtown. Its beach is world-famous and the locals are friendly. There’s nothing like a walk, run or bike ride along its incredible oceanside boardwalk.
Sure, the fences are still up, but the council has plans to reopen part of Mauao. Let’s hope that eventuates.
However, fences should not stop people from enjoying the rest of the area.
We can’t change what happened, but we can influence the future.
As we step through summer, it is vital that locals and visitors flood the area, have fun and, where they can, support local businesses.
Some operators remain under intense pressure. They need to thrive, not just survive.