In Tīrau, a small town on New Zealand’s North Island, there’s a big debate over plans for a Burger King and a Starbucks.
Known for its unique corrugated iron sculptures and boutique cafes, Tīrau is considering whether these fast-food giants will fit in.
Many residents oppose the proposal, fearing it will harm the town’s charm and local businesses. With a population of around 800 people, Tīrau’s character is important to those who live there. Geoff Poole, a 20-year resident, expressed concern that the town’s uniqueness could be lost.
The planned location for the new restaurants is on Main Road, between Tīrau Primary School and the Tīrau Community Church. It’s close to existing cafes like the BP Wild Bean Cafe and local favorites such as Cafe 20 Nine. Raj Singh, the cafe’s owner, is worried the new restaurants will hurt his business, which relies heavily on travelers.
While some argue the new restaurants could bring jobs, local business owners like Singh and Paul Andugula from the Cabbage Tree Cafe say they’ve struggled to find local staff for years. They believe the new businesses might not solve this problem.
Opinions on the street are mixed. Some believe the fast-food outlets will disrupt Tīrau’s small-town vibe, while others think they might fit in, pointing to the existing Subway as an example.
Traffic concerns are also a big issue. During the summer, traffic can already back up for kilometers. Residents worry that adding Burger King and Starbucks could make this worse.
However, there are also supporters. Christina Phillips, who works at the local Fonterra Factory, believes the new restaurants could offer much-needed late-night food options for shift workers and travelers.
The South Waikato District Council is reviewing submissions from residents until July 26. Until then, the town of Tīrau remains divided on whether Burger King and Starbucks should join their community.
