Last year two of Zululand's most successful towns, Richards Bay and Empangeni, transformed themselves into the city of uMhlathuze.
In economic terms the area has grown faster than the national growth rate over the past 10 years. Now they intend becoming a prime tourist destination, with beaches, battlefield sites and bushlands.
The port of Richards Bay is one of the world's leading deepwater ports. And it is around the port that a number of exciting tourism projects are planned.
Highlights include recreational areas, the development of high-class waterfront marinas, watersport clubs, hotels, restaurants and retail facilities.
The Richards Bay Marina and the Mzingazi Canal Marina site, situated at Bayshore-Alkantstrand and the Mzingazi Canal respectively, will make the bayside a "bright lights" area and playground for tourists.
The exclusive residential development along the coastal dune belt could include holiday accommodation, chalets and residential development with recreation and beach facilities.
An exciting project on the drawing board looks at maximising the eco-tourism potential of the picturesque Lake Mzingazi along with the pristine forests of the Southern Mzingazi Nature reserve.
Development ideas include building an exclusive lodge, boardroom and environmental education facilities, and opening up hiking, equestrian and mountain bike trails through the forest.
Empangeni, which is close to Richards Bay, is rich in tradition and culture with a well-established arts and crafts centre and museum.
Other events attracting visitors to the uMhlathuze area are the Hippo Rally on Naval Island, the Sugar Carnival in Empangeni, the Richards Bay Fishing Bonanza, the 21 Species Competition, the Zululand Expo and more.
Cruise liners are calling on a more regular basis at the port and passengers are eager to visit the local game parks and Zulu cultural villages. uMhlathuze can be seen as the gateway for the eco-tourist wishing to explore the lakes, lagoons, swamps, mangrove rests, coral reefs and pristine wilderness.