Destination Waimakariri

park, a BMX track and a dog park on its Redzone recovery wish list.’’

Peter Allen offered up a number of suggestions to better utilise assets already available in the district.

‘‘Our district is close to the airport and the city. Attract visitors by promoting events; develop walking and cycling networks that link the mountains to the sea and our rivers; provide a greater range of accommodation for overseas visitors; create a character for our towns which attracts people from Christchurch.’’

Shona Powell said ‘‘We need our own identity, not just as a commuter region for Christchurch. Council can encourage, but not fund, festivals and events which are developed and run by residents, businesses and service clubs to attract visitors. We have fantastic rivers and a lake so let’s push for ‘swimmable’ rather than ‘wadeable’.’’

Gideon Couper said he doesn’t see Waimakariri as a destination and in his opinion that’s not a bad thing.

‘‘People come here to live, to raise families and to enjoy more open space.

‘‘We don’t need tourism - it will never be the way forward for our district. While some tourists will discover the district for themselves, and enjoy visiting, putting resources into attracting and accommodating tourists will cost much more than will ever be made in return.’’