New World Victoria Park may take nearly two years to rebuild after a fire destroyed the Auckland shopping centre two weeks ago. 

Foodstuffs North Island CEO Chris Quin said the damage was extensive and that the organisation was in the process of disestablishing roles at the store.

With over 180 employees being displaced due to the fire, Foodstuffs North Island said it was supporting staff in finding new roles, including positions at nearby stores, at its support centre and its distribution centres. 

The retailer will bring forward the opening of its Pt Chevalier New World store from September 9 to August 19.

“We know how important it is to have access to a full-service grocery store in the area, and bringing forward the opening of New World Pt Chevalier is one way we can help meet that need,” said Quin. 

Quin stated the new store opening might also provide employment opportunities to staff affected by the New World Victoria Park fire. 

“We’re actively prioritising affected team members in recruitment across our network,” he said.

The company has confirmed that the investigation into the fire has been completed and Foodstuffs will begin to remove damaged parts of the building so teams may begin clearing stock and equipment from the store.