The Catlins Coast Inc official website - www.catlins.org.nz - was last updated in 2014, meaning it was time for an overhaul, project co-ordinator Lisa Biginato said.
"The current website has served its purpose, but this new version will meet the needs of a modern audience, and offer something for everyone using it - visitors, community and businesses alike."
Key changes, overseen by Queenstown web designer Swordfox, included making the site mobile-friendly, integration of community noticeboards, and a visual makeover, Ms Biginato said.
Phase II of the project awaited confirmation of funding, but would include the introduction of an interactive map on the site, a history section, and the ability for advertisers to update their online marketing quickly and simply.
She expected the eventual cost of both phases to total less than $20,000, funded by grants.
"We’re a non-profit organisation, so we rely on our advertisers to help support the ongoing operation of the website, and other activities. In return, we want the site to be a useful, functional portal for them to reach out to people."
Visitors to the site - and potential visitors to the area - would be met with a "stunning" range of classic and previously unseen Catlins imagery, Ms Biginato said.
"Thanks to the generosity of a great many amateur and professional photographers, the site looks fantastic. We also have video to provide a stunning snapshot of what the beautiful Catlins have to offer."
A guiding principle of Catlins Coast was the Catlins Care Code, she said, and this had been central in their year-long redevelopment of the site.
"Tourism in the Catlins is growing, and we welcome that. But it’s equally important that our visitors are educated in how best to enjoy the amazing natural resources down here, in a way that leaves them unspoilt for others. That’s something the new site emphasises, we hope."
She said a firm launch date remained to be confirmed, but could be "as early as Monday".
