Signs for the times in central Greymouth
The signs have been fully funded through the Tourism Infrastructure Fund so there has been no cost to local ratepayers at all. While they are dedicated to providing updates about Freedom Camping legislation and changes, they also provide an avenue for Council to share details of upcoming events other important information.
Grey District Council General Manager Operations Aaron Haymes says the screens are a valuable addition to Council’s communication channels.
“While they’ve been funded to provide information about Freedom Camping – where people can and can’t park up, what has changed in the rules, what’s expected of our visitors – they also give us a new channel to share details of upcoming events, important Council updates and information important to our community.
“Over time, we also see these digital displays as an opportunity to bring in advertising income and give local businesses and groups a place to share their updates as well.”
Mr Haymes says the signs have been installed outside the Regent Theatre and on the corner of Tainui and MacKay Streets, outside the BNZ building. He says the positions were chosen for high foot traffic, security and ease of viewing.
"While they're 'live' at the moment we're still waiting on necessary parts to connect the units to the internet, so they just have some holding images on them at the moment. When they're connected early next week we'll update them regularly and in real-time," Mr Haymes says.
“These signs are standard across the country for outdoor advertising and information sharing. They’re strong, weather-proof and bright enough to be read in any conditions.
“We’re really looking forward to seeing the information we share on these develop and grow over the coming months.”