Christchurch retail precinct continues to grow

christchurchChristchurch’s retail precinct continues to grow and attract more people to the central city, according to the minister supporting Greater Christchurch Regeneration, Nicky Wagner.

“Both the ANZ and BNZ centres are now up and running, making the retail precinct a much more vibrant, lively place,” she said, with a new Fresh Choice City market opening at the The Crossing on Monday.

Wagner said the Christchurch Integrated Government Accommodation (CIGA) programme had complemented retail growth in the area.

“The Crossing, which is opening in stages, is an extensive project offering retail, hospitality, commercial space and car parking. It will also host a number of retailers new to Christchurch, including Swedish clothing company H&M and British fashion brand Topshop.

After a six and a half year absence, Country Road will also soon reopen in the central city at the Crossing retail and hospitality development.

The new South Island flagship store will front directly onto Cashel Street. Prior to the earthquakes, Country Road was located in the Guthrey Centre.

“These new offerings are completely changing the retail landscape and establishing central Christchurch as a modern and exciting shopping destination,” said Wagner.

“The CIGA programme was a catalyst for the central city’s revitalisation, moving 1500 workers from government departments and agencies into four new buildings in and around the Retail Precinct.

“All this development shows the Government and the private sector have real confidence in the future of Christchurch as a fantastic place to live, work and play.”

The last building in the initiative, the Pita Te Hori Centre (formerly the King Edward Barracks site), was officially opened last week.

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