Takapuna is outperforming many of Auckland’s retail and hospitality districts, with new trading results showing steady growth, reports the Takapuna Business Association.

From January to June, spending in the precinct rose 3 per cent compared with the same period last year. The increase comes as other central Auckland areas report declines, and inflation reaches a 12‑month high.

Hospitality is leading the charge, with Marketview data showing a 10.1 per cent rise in June spending year‑on‑year, a sharp contrast to closures seen in other parts of the city.

Department store and leisure spending also climbed 5.8 per cent, while the average transaction value rose 2.6 per cent to $49.66, suggesting consumers are still willing to spend on non‑essential purchases.

Takapuna Business Association CEO Terence Harpur said the results reflect years of investment in infrastructure, events, and urban planning.

“There are so many factors that have contributed to the overall success of the Takapuna precinct in the first half of this year, but I can confidently say that years of strategic investment and urban planning are paying off, and will continue to do so with even more developments and plans in the pipeline,” he said.

Recent additions to the precinct include the Takapuna Surf Club, Rosies Red‑Hot Cantina, Benny’s Burgers, and Cousin Scott’s, alongside new retail entrants such as activewear brand LSKD.

The area has also benefited from major civic upgrades, including the 2023 opening of Waiwharariki Anzac Square, designed to connect the main shopping strip with the beach and improve pedestrian flow.

Investment in Hurstmere Road’s pedestrian‑focused retail design and improved laneway connections has also lifted visitor dwell time and spending.

“The vision for the Square was to make the whole area more accessible and appealing all year round, where people can do their shopping, grab a bite to eat, and then walk along Takapuna Beach or take the kids to the famous beachside playground,” Harpur added.

The association has increased support for local events such as Takapuna Winter Lights, driving traffic to the precinct and reinforcing its profile as a lifestyle destination.

“Although inflation is high, the cost of living is high, and consumers aren’t spending as much, it doesn’t mean they’re not spending at all,” Harpur concluded. “It just means they’re more careful and considerate with where their hard‑earned money is going.”