Just a quick note to invite you to register your interest in the “free day on the Kapiti Coast” that was advertised in today’s Dominion Post.

Nature Coast Enterprise, Hikurangi Foundation and the Kapiti Coast District Council all know the value to the economies of our communities that visitors bring. They also know that climate change is real and need to find the balance between a having a successful visitor industry and also protecting our very special environment.

They have some ideas of how to balance the two; however they really want to know what you think. At the end of the day, you are their customers.

They have 100 Free Kapiti passes to give away to individuals, couples and families. All you need to do is go to www.naturecoast.co.nz, follow the links to register, and tell them why they should give some of the passes to you.

The idea is that they provide you with a free train ticket from Wellington to Paraparaumu and back again, as well as free entry to the major attractions, regular free shuttles travelling between Queen Elizabeth Park and Waikanae and all the places in-between, bikes, maps, advice – as much as they can so you can experience the best of Kapiti without bringing your car.

A couple of the local cafes are even willing to offer “two for one” drinks to help make this a memorable experience.

In return, all they ask is that you complete a survey of your views at the end of your day that has been produced by Opus International. They will use the information gathered to work out what they need do to make their region a destination, which is appealing to those of you that don’t want to use the car.

The “Free day on the Kapiti Coast” will take place on Saturday April 18th from 10am till 4 pm.

If you are available on that day, and would like the chance to play your part in the future of Kapiti Coast tourism by participating in a day out that doesn’t involve using the car, then please register your interest.

Over the next few days they will be collating all the registration forms and will be in touch with those of you that are successful. What they are looking for is a good balance between individuals, couples and families.

For more information, contact Gaylene@naturecoast.co.nz or contact the Paraparaumu Visitor Centre on 04 298 8195