Students bring spark to Parade

Saturday, August 6, 2011 6:00

PIER REVIEW: Three of the top four designs included piers off Marine Parade, where people could fish and enjoy the view.

Supplied

By Caitlin Nobescaitlin.nobes@hbtoday.co.nz

A circular pier, wind turbines and a ferry are ideas Eastern Institute of Technology students have put forward to revamp Marine Parade.

Senior design students have taken part in a competition to provide a talking point for options along Napier's shoreline.

Spatial design and graphic design students worked together to create a proposal to bring life to the area.

The challenge was set by Labour list MP Stuart Nash, who said the stretch from the sunken gardens to the aquarium was "looking a little tired".

"I do believe the Marine Parade is one of the jewels in Napier's crown, and I would love to see it once again as one of the major attractions of this fabulous city," Mr Nash said. The results were beyond his expectations.

"They have provided alternative visions for how the Napier they wish to live in could be.

"There is imagination, innovation and interaction between the city and the sea," he said.

EIT graphic design tutor Jerry Gull said the tutors had been looking for a project to bring the spatial design and graphic design students together and this proved to be perfect.

Students worked in groups of four or five, improving their teamwork and political skills, and encouraging a group work ethic.

Four teams were selected to put together the final design proposals. "It's been extremely valuable for us and the results are fantastic. I'm absolutely stunned," Mr Gull said.

A Matariki-themed proposal incorporated waka-inspired shapes and raised viewing platforms, while a concept for an eco-park would provide its own electricity thanks to wind and sea turbines.

The Moremore team suggested a long, curving pier, which mimicked the circles of the Sound Shell and could protect a swimming area.

The final of the top selected projects was an historical design including a large pier, ferry to Cape Kidnappers and an Art Deco amphitheatre.

All four proposals would be on display at the War Memorial Conference Centre this weekend.

SEE THE DESIGNS

The students' designs will be on display this weekend in the Exhibition Room of the War Memorial Conference Centre, Marine Parade.

The top four proposals will be available for public viewing and feedback.

The exhibition opens at 10am today.