Kmart has been secured as the new major tenant in the multi-million dollar redevelopment of Bethlehem Town Centre in Tauranga, on the North Island.

Centre manager, Andrew Wadsworth  of Colliers  International, says the department store’s presence is an example of the significant growth Bethlehem is experiencing.

“This is a fantastic addition to the centre and the local community. A great deal of time and resource has gone into the planning of this project,” said Wadsworth.

The closest store Kmart store is located in Mount Maunganui, according to Kmart GM of property, Ben Smith. There are 18 Kmart stores in New Zealand, with new sites planned.

“The new Kmart store in the Bethlehem Town Centre will provide Kmart’s full range in our newly formatted and designed store, and further enhance the Town Centre as a convenient shopping destination west of Tauranga’s CBD, said Smith.

Bethlehem Town Centre has evolved remarkably since the original Countdown opened in December 2003, with the remainder of the centre opening in 2007.

“The introduction of Kmart will significantly increase the retail offering for customers,” says Wadsworth.

Construction will begin this month, with Kmart due to open early next year.

Bethlehem Town Centre has 1000 car parks, and on completion of its redevelopment will cover 20,000sqm.