David Hill @ Papamoa Plaza

Papamoa retailers have certainly touched upon a strong chord of community needs.

Starting with the inaugural Santa Parade with more than 56 floats and 10,000 spectators, the community has clearly signalled that events with a strong family and community focus are going to be well supported.

Upcoming events such as the Teddy Bear's Picnic on Saturday, March 28, and Freezin' for a Reason Polar plunge on Sunday, June 21 have generated an enormous amount of interest from locals and local community groups.

Numerous events are scheduled for inclusion in the Papamoa diary, and with event organisers (local and national) vying for time and space in Papamoa, we are in the delightful position of being able to begin work on our website of free and local events and activities.

Set to go live in July 2015, events from across the region and across the country look set to bring a renewed life and exciting vibrant feel to the Bay's fastest growing suburb. Watch this space for event and website launch dates.

The residential and retail growth is continuing at a rate among the highest in New Zealand. Recent retail and housing developments will cement Papamoa as the best place to live, shop and play.

The early opening of the Tauranga Eastern link and the release of further land for subdivision will certainly increase the accessibility of Papamoa to the rest of the region.

Formally an outpost of Tauranga, Papamoa is becoming the first choice for existing residents and new ‘locals' to live, relax and shop – this is why we love being here.