Waimate's iconic white horse on the hill has received an upgrade worth half-million dollars.
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Town leaders say the development bodes well for the district's future.
The development, which includes picnic areas, plantings and platforms with panoramic views of the district, was officially opened yesterday.
The white horse itself received a fresh coat of paint and a new eye - a 1954 Chevrolet hubcap.
It was constructed by retired farmer Norman Hayman and his wife Betty in 1968, and intended as a tribute to Clydesdale working horses and the role they had played in the district.
Photo: RNZ / Nate McKinnon
Their sons, Wally and Noel, were at yesterday's official opening.
"Mum lowered the [concrete] blocks on a makeshift railway down to dad," Wally said.
"They put in a lot of hard work for somebody in their age at that stage to carry that down there and build that," Noel added.
Norman got his inspiration on an overseas trip to Europe during his retirement.
But the finished product, with its platforms to allow for the enjoyment of the breathtaking views out to the Pacific Ocean, would have far exceeded their parents wildest dreams, the brothers said.
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Also unveiled were 10 pou - one for each of the area's schools.
Waimate District mayor Craig Rowley said the development of the site boded well for the future.
"We're booming, our house prices are going, the population is going up, the schools are getting greater numbers, so I think we have a bright future."
Photo: RNZ / Nate McKinnon
Waimate2gether project manager Jo Sutherland said the point of the development was to lay a building block for further investment in the district's future.
"It's the beginning of a great future. The white horse is an icon for the town and it's lovely to upgrade the park and make it a lovely place now for people to come and visit."