A blessing, or karakia, has marked the first redevelopment stage of Wellington’s Courtenay Place as part of the Golden Mile upgrade. 

The work will start on May 4, and include the construction of new pedestrian and bike crossings, weather shelters, and improved footpaths, with eight months slated for the completion of this phase to minimise traffic disruption. 

“We’re supporting businesses affected by the project with things like direct contact with the construction team to solve issues quickly, clear signage to help customers access businesses, noise control like safety fencing, and tailored mentoring and training through WellingtonNZ and the Regional Business Partners Network,” said mayor Tory Whanau.

The revitalisation of Courtenay Place is part of a $116 million Golden Mile project, funded by the council and Waka Kotahi New Zealand Transport Agency, with an additional budget of $23 million to upgrade the pipes under the streets.

“We’ll improve traffic flow and bus reliability, create wider footpaths and dedicated bike lanes, add more public seating and outdoor dining areas, include cultural design elements developed in partnership with mana whenua, and increase native planting,” said Brad Singh, Wellington City Council manager of transport and infrastructure.

The design, in partnership with mana whenua, will spotlight the city’s cultural history through interactive sculptures, areas where people can sit, relax, and share food, and paving patterns inspired by the city’s hidden waterway. 

Work on Courtenay Place itself will begin at the end of this year or early next year, following the completion of this phase of the project and the signing of a subsequent Golden Mile construction contract.