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The Ngapuhi Runanga has bought the abandoned Kaikohe Hotel and plans to demolish it pending redevelopment.
Chief executive George Riley says the runanga doesn’t have a commercial plan yet for the 1.2 hectare site, which it bought for $287,000 as a social investment and a way to improve the town centre.
He says the building is an eyesore, and pulling it down would create a grassed area which could be used for markets, sports and community events.
Mr Riley says the closure of the hotel had already brought some social benefits because of the reduction in the number of pokies in the district.
Some in the town are suggesting the site could be used for a cultural centre, like Kaitaia's Te Ahu Centre.
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