Retail Precinct

Wāhi Hokohoko

Central Christchurch’s retail precinct will offer destination shopping in a pedestrian-friendly, vibrant area. The early development of the area will attract other activity.

With the Re:Start initiative, centred around Ballantynes and a cooperative of retailers, the Central City Property Owners and Business Group re-opened in relocatable container structures in City Mall.

CERA will continue to work with the private sector to facilitate options for the development of the retail precinct, to ensure central Christchurch offers a unique and distinctive shopping experience.

Retail (and commercial) businesses at the centre of the city will generate greater activity and energy. The surrounding streets will be pedestrian-friendly, with improvements made as required.

Other retail opportunities

Markets or quarters offering diverse cultural and retail experiences will contribute to the vibrancy of redeveloped central Christchurch. Christchurch City Council has expressed interest in a covered market in central Christchurch, providing low-cost business space for retail market businesses. It could include boutique retailers and hospitality venues, and an open air market space.

The covered market needs a variety of private sector stakeholders to lead its successful development and implementation. An international quarter, including a Pacific hub, would give central Christchurch a distinct identity and shape the character and culture of the area, attract residents and visitors, contribute to economic growth and prosperity, and make the city a welcoming place for all.

New projects will also emerge as the recovery of central Christchurch progresses.