Christchurch’s new $53 million bus interchange is seeking retail tenants to occupy five retail spaces from mid 2015 when the interchange opens.

The spaces, referred to as ‘pods’, range from 30sqm to 92sqm in size.

“Our initial thinking is the pods will be suitable for a cafe and food outlets, a convenience store and a tourism related service,” Warwick Isaacs, Christchurch Central Development Unit (CCDU) director, said.

“This will be a big plus for users of the interchange, who will be able to grab something to eat or drink, or other items or services they might need as they wait for their buses or stop off on journeys to other locations.”

Colliers International is contracted to engage with the Christchurch retail community to secure suitable tenants on behalf of the CCDU.

The CCDU is leading the project in partnership with the Christchurch City Council, Environment Canterbury and New Zealand Transport Agency.

The interchange is located on Tuam, Colombo and Lichfield Sts, and SOL Square, and will be used by around 70,000 people each day by 2041.