New Zealand’s newest town centre in Canterbury, Ravenswood Central, has recently hit several important milestones, including the breaking ground for the new 9300sqm Harvey Norman store, due to open late next year.

Joining New World, BP and McDonald’s, Joe’s Garage and Gull Service Station have recently opened at the 20-hectare commercial hub, which is part of Ravenswood residential development located 25km north of the Christchurch CBD.

The Freedom Lifestyle Village is also constructing its first South Island village here, while other retailers and hospitality brands are expected to open later this year and throughout next.

“We are very excited to be welcoming many high-quality retailers to Ravenswood Central and their investment shows strong business confidence in this growing region,” said Infinity Investment Group development manager – commercial Jerome O’Sullivan.

Enterprise North Canterbury CEO Heather Warwick says the commercial area will provide greater retail and hospitality choices and local spending, as well as create jobs and opportunities.

“While other regions in New Zealand have been experiencing different economic pressures, North Canterbury has proven a high level of resilience due to the diversity of businesses in our region,” Warwick said.

The completed town centre will offer a combination of restaurants, cafes, retail and commercial options to the projected population growth of the Waimakariri district over the next 10 years.