Attractions

KZN Secures Major Boost with R1.4B North Tower Launch and R1.3B Leisure Investment in uMhlanga

Published

3 months ago

23 July 2025

Shelley

In a city steadily rising as one of South Africa’s leading urban investment hubs, the Oceans Umhlanga Mixed-Use Development will officially launch its R1.4 billion North Oceans Umhlanga Residential Tower on Friday, 25 July in uMhlanga. The unveiling marks a significant milestone not just for the precinct, but for KwaZulu-Natal’s broader economic and social transformation.

The North Tower forms part of the R4.3 billion Oceans Umhlanga Mixed-Use Development, which includes the internationally award-winning Oceans Mall and the five-star Radisson Blu Durban Umhlanga Hotel. Since the mall’s opening, the precinct has breathed new life into the region—creating jobs, attracting global brands, and reimagining what luxury and inclusive growth can look like side by side.

“This is not just a property launch; it’s a celebration of how far Durban has come, and a reflection of the developers’ (Vivian Reddy and Rob Alexander) tenacity and unwavering perseverance,” said Brian Mpono, CEO of Oceans Umhlanga Development. “The Oceans Umhlanga development has brought global attention to the potential of this province. We’re proud to now open the doors to a residential offering that reflects both international luxury standards and local ownership in a way South Africa has never seen before.”

The North Tower introduces over 258 high-end luxury apartments, ranging from studios to four-bedroom units—including penthouses—all designed with ocean-facing views of one of the most iconic stretches of Africa’s East Coast. Each unit features premium finishes and direct access to Oceans Mall.

Beyond the aesthetics and amenities, the project is rooted in a powerful vision of transformation. Approximately 50% of the current North Tower workforce are young and Black South Africans—with a noticeable representation of young Black women.

Equally significant is the commercial makeup of the Oceans Umhlanga development. Half of Oceans Mall’s retail space is Black-owned, with 12 of its 14 restaurants operated by Black entrepreneurs. To date, the precinct has created over 25,000 jobs during construction, with many of those roles filled by individuals from surrounding communities including Inanda, Ntuzuma, KwaMashu, and Blackburn—within a 5 to 10 km radius of uMhlanga. This highlights the development’s deep commitment to inclusive, community-driven growth.

Neighbouring areas such as KwaMashu, Verulam, Ntuzuma, Inanda, and Durban North—once considered distant from large-scale investment—are now part of a new chapter. Employment in sectors like retail, construction, security, cleaning, logistics, transport, and hospitality is no longer out of reach for residents in these communities.

“We are witnessing lives change in real time,” continued Mpono. “Young people are securing jobs in flagship luxury boutiques. Women are running thriving restaurants. Fathers who once struggled to find stable employment are now part of reliable teams in logistics and security. These are not just numbers on a spreadsheet—they represent families with renewed hope, dignity, and a real opportunity to participate in the economy.”

Strategically positioned on Lagoon Drive in the heart of uMhlanga, the Oceans North Tower is poised to become a landmark for long-term value and secure investment. The building includes resort-style pools, concierge services, yoga zones, children’s play areas, ducted air-conditioning, inverter readiness, and direct connectivity to Oceans Mall and the beachfront promenade.

While final statistics on the economic impact will be revealed at the launch, the project continues to anchor Durban’s post-pandemic recovery and growing national interest in KwaZulu-Natal’s property sector.

In Mpono’s words: “The completion of the Oceans Umhlanga Residential Towers is a vote of confidence from the developers—confidence in Durban, in our people, and in the kind of future we can build when world-class investment meets authentic transformation.” He also teased the announcement of a R1.3 billion leisure investment in the upcoming South Tower.

The launch event, taking place on the evening of Friday, 25 July, will host media, investors, development partners, civic leaders, and government officials including the Mayor and Premier. Guests can expect an exclusive viewing of the residential tower, live entertainment, refreshments, and formal addresses by Vivian Reddy, the Mayor, the Premier of KZN, and economic analysts.

Author: Shelley

Related Topics:business Feature Featured News umhlanga

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Attractions

What’s On at Westown Square, Shongweni

Published

3 weeks ago

26 September 2025

Shelley

Discover the heart of KZN at Westown Square in Shongweni – a vibrant, growing destination where shopping, dining and lifestyle come together in perfect harmony.
Here, local craft, artisanal homeware and unique products find a home, bringing the very best of our region to life.

At the centre of it all is The Town Square, your gateway to The Barn & Makers Market. Stroll through an eclectic mix of locally sourced art, beauty, fashion, homeware, food and
drink — all set alongside some of the region’s finest restaurants and exciting concept eateries.

More than just a market, The Barn is the beating heart of Westown. It’s where the community gathers each week for live music, entertainment, and a celebration of local talent.
#ItsTimeForTheWest

LOCAL IS LEKKER and we’re celebrating all things Heritage this month, in this beautiful province of KZN that we call HOME! There’s something for everyone, so follow us on social media to keep up to date.

THIS WEEKEND!
OPENING OF THE PADDOCK at Westown – 27 September

Westown is excited to celebrate the opening of The Paddock– a unique new place and the ‘home’ for Westown Trails. It’s fun for the whole family, whether you’re on horseback, on your mountain bike, running or walking. Our network of marked trails, suitable for a variety of sporting codes, enhances and extends the spectacular outdoor character the area is renowned for.
* Time: Hub Opens – 06:00
Official Start – 07:00
* Venue: The Paddock at Westown
* Cost: No cost and complimentary bike and wash service from Cycle Science Shongweni

SPRINGBOK RUGBY IN THE BARN
Come & support The Bokke at the Westown Square Fan Park in The Barn at Westown.
⁠⁠Catch the live action on the big screen – our DJ will be in the house for the pre-match warm-up and post-match fun.
Saturday 4 October – SA vs Argentina
*Time: 15:00
* Venue: The Barn at Westown Square
Pre-match fun in the Rugby Kids Zone:

* The Garvz Sport Activation (13:00 -16:00) & Kids Activities (14:00 -16:00) including:
Baby Bok, toddler soft-play area, face painting, balloon sculpting and crafts activities

PASSION PAINT & SIP – 1 October

Release your inner artist with an evening of fun and creativity. This guided class is open to all, no matter your competency level. Be prepared to be surprised at what
you can create!

Date: Wednesday 1 October
Time: 18:30
Venue: The Barn at Westown Square
Cost: R250 pp incl. a complimentary drink & all materials to make your own work of art.
Booking: Quicket or WhatsApp Kirsty on 083 2555 736

OCTOBER SCHOOL HOLIDAY PROGRAMME – Follow our social media pages
Westown Square is THE PLACE TO BE this October, with a School Holiday Programme to delight kids of all ages!!

FREE MOVIE NIGHT AT WESTOWN – 3 October
Bring your picnic blankets and camp chairs for a free outdoor movie night under the stars.
Food and beverages will be sold – no food/ beverages may be brought into the venue.
* Date: 3 October
* Time: 18:30
* Movie: How to Train Your Dragon
* Venue: The Bowl at Westown Square
* Cost: Free

BLASTER WARS – the ultimate interactive fun for kids aged 5 – 13 years. Jump into action-packed group games, bouncing from one awesome game to the next, all with hands-on
safety. Activities include:
•Blaster Wars fun battles and blaster games
•Target shooting challenges
•Fun races and games for all ages
Date: 7 & 8 October
Venue: Grass Area/Lawn on Level 4
Time: 11:00 -13:00
Cost: R120 per child
Bookings: Tel: 066 236 8100 or email: info@blasterwars.co.za

FRIDAY FLASHBACK
Get a jump-start on the weekend with our vibrant weekly Westown Wind-down. Turn after-work drinks into a full night out at Westown Square, as we dial back the clock, with our weekly 80s-themed Friday Flashback retro music experience with DJ Spike & James VN on the decks and Happy Hour food and drink specials.
Date: Every Friday
Time: 16:30-21:30
Cost: Free entry

SUNDAY SOUNDTRACK VIBES
Join a line-up of Durban’s hottest musicians, every Sunday afternoon, from 12:00-15:00 in The Barn at Westown Square. Choose a bite and beverage from a diverse selection of eateries and settle in for the afternoon.

– Sunday 5 October
A regular favourite at Westown Square, Angel is in the house for this Sunday’s session.
– Sunday 12 October
Popular songbird Carmen Rodrigues is back at Westown Square for a laid-back chill
interlude.

Author: Shelley

Accomodation

Review: Ghost Mountain Inn

Published

1 month ago

4 September 2025

Melissa Moodley

There’s something magical about escaping the bustle of Durban and heading into Zululand for a weekend of tranquility, warm hospitality, and adventure. Our stay at Ghost Mountain Inn was nothing short of unforgettable – from the moment we arrived, we were wrapped in the comfort of this family-friendly lodge set against the dramatic backdrop of Ghost Mountain itself.

The staff at Ghost Mountain Inn were incredibly warm and welcoming, making us feel right at home from the start. To our delight, we were upgraded to a stunning suite. Waiting inside was a thoughtful welcome: chilled champagne and a beautifully prepared platter of strawberries, fruit, and cheese. The suite itself was spacious — perfect for a romantic couple’s getaway, yet roomy enough to comfortably host families. With an outdoor shower, a tub, and all the amenities you could need, it was the kind of place you don’t want to leave.

Exploring the Lodge
Our first day was spent exploring the lodge. A highlight was the stylish bar near reception, where cocktails flow as easily as the Zululand sunsets. Dinner that evening was a treat: a lively braai buffet where the chefs grilled everything to perfection. The spread included an impressive variety of salads, sides, starters, and a dessert station that made it impossible not to indulge.

Adding to the atmosphere, the lodge was abuzz with energy thanks to a cricket tournament hosted during our stay. The vibe was vibrant and social, with families and groups of friends gathering across the lodge’s many spaces.

Family Fun & Outdoor Adventures
Ghost Mountain Inn is truly family-friendly, and we discovered this even more on our second day. The property has not one but two kid-friendly pools, perfect for both relaxation and play. Beyond the pools, a wooden jetty leads out across the dam – a picturesque spot where you might spot hippos if you’re lucky (we weren’t this time, but the view was worth it). All the while, the looming presence of Ghost Mountain provides the perfect backdrop for those picture-perfect Instagram moments.

Of course, no Zululand trip is complete without a game drive. We ventured into the Mkuze area, where the Big Five roam. The experience of spotting lions, leopards, buffalo, and other wildlife in their natural habitat was a highlight of our trip.

Dining Experiences
Mealtimes at Ghost Mountain Inn are as much a highlight as the activities. For lunch, we enjoyed the casual outdoor restaurant with its pizza oven, serving up fresh pizzas alongside hearty burgers, pastas, and light bites. Dinner the next evening offered something different – a set menu with options ranging from steak to chicken, catering to a wide variety of tastes. Whether you’re in the mood for a buffet feast or a relaxed à la carte meal, there’s always something to suit.

Final Thoughts
Our weekend at Ghost Mountain Inn was a perfect blend of comfort, adventure, and family-friendly fun. Whether you’re planning a romantic escape, a weekend with friends, or a family bush holiday, this Zululand gem offers something for everyone.

With warm hospitality, beautiful surroundings, and endless activities, Ghost Mountain Inn is a destination we’ll keep recommending to Durbanites looking to unwind and reconnect with nature.

Tel: +27 (0)35 573 1025
Mobile/Whatsapp: +27 (0)64 664 6495

Author: Melissa Moodley

Accomodation

Baroque in the Bush 2025

Published

2 months ago

26 August 2025

Shelley

Experience the magic of Baroque in the Bush 2025, set against the untamed beauty of Shingwedzi Camp in Kruger National Park.
Enjoy five unforgettable concerts over three days, serenaded by works by Bach, Händel, Vivaldi, and more.

Let the wildlife be your audience – while elephants wander past, elevate your evenings with open-air buffet dinners, star-studded skies, and the crackle of laughter from our quiz break.