By Linda Hall , Local Democracy reporting A Hastings resident baffled by the approval of the region's new Gateway signs has whipped up a storm on social media. Yvonne Lorkin said while the region boasts an impressive tapestry of natural beauty, the new branding has been presented in the colour of "old porridge with a hideously old-fashioned font." "My whole life I have been fiercely proud of my place, my turangawaewae, this profoundly wonderful region.
Now every time I drive past one of these signs my toes curl in embarrassment that that's the image our authorities chose to represent us. "How and why was this approved? I'm baffled," Lorkin said. Lorkin's post on social media about the signs which she headed "worst regional branding yet" drew some scathing comments including "Good Lord that's atrocious", "Huge fail H for Horrendous.
I'm guessing it cost $10 or so" and "Well worth the rates increase said no one ever." Hastings District mayor Sandra Hazlehurst said everyone is entitled to an opinion. "It would be impossible to achieve a single design that resonates with everyone.
We have also had positive feedback about the unique signs and the fresh, bold feel they bring to the district." Hastings District Council group manager marketing, communications and engagement Naomi Fergusson said the gateway signs had been replaced with a new design that was within part of the new Heretaunga Hastings brand that began to be rolled out last year. "The gateway sign replacement was origina.