Nelson Junction Retail Development Taking Shape
8 June 2023
Construction is well underway at Nelson Junction, the large-format retail centre being developed by local investment company Gibbons. The centre is currently home to the Nelson Mitre 10 Mega store and a Speights Alehouse and is zoned as a 30,000m2 large format retail precinct. The new building includes 12 retail tenancies that will range in size from 500m² to 1,500 m².
As soon as Gibbons are in a position to do so, announcements will be made as to what tenants you can expect to see at Nelson Junction. What we can say for now is that we are satisfied with the mix and range of tenants that have committed to the development. The tenant offerings are primarily in the home improvement and lifestyle space, and are a combination of local, national, and Australian retailers.
“We have a great mix of tenants, some of whom are new to the region, and they share the vision that Nelson Junction is a great central location” says Managing Director Scott Gibbons.
“We are working our way through the implementation of a masterplan for the site, and we will continue to invest as demand dictates. The building currently under construction will be trading in early 2024."
Colliers New Zealand, who is managing the leasing of the property, says the central location of the development and the existing Mitre10 Mega has made it popular with retailers.
“We have achieved a superb mix of businesses coming to this retail hub spanning furniture, home improvement, lifestyle & leisure, and appliance sectors”. “One of the last remaining premises for lease is for a 120m² ‘A grade’ café/hospitality offering which we will bring to market shortly.”
Gibbons says the vision for Nelson Junction is consistent with their commitment to delivering legacy developments that add long-term value to the wider community. The building, designed by local architect Andrew Irving from Irving Smith Architects, incorporates several features that help reduce its environmental impact. The laminated veneer timber structure, which was made by Nelson Pine Industries in Richmond, has reduced use of steel, and the roofing and significant areas of cladding incorporate latest generation insulation to improve the building’s efficiency. Water saving fixtures and efficient LED lighting are also specified to help minimise energy costs on site.
The main contractor, Gibbons Naylor, use monitored waste management throughout the construction process, which helps ensure construction waste is minimised wherever possible.
With over 850 carparks, including several EV charging stations for the shopping public and site staff, those choosing to bike are also well catered for with both E-bike and standard bike stations, and excellent connectivity to the existing cycleway. All tenancies are also provided with ‘end-of-trip’ facilities, including changing and showering spaces, designed to support people who cycle, jog, or walk to work rather than driving or taking public transport. “We not only wanted to meet the current needs of all stakeholders at Nelson Junction, but also future proof the site as more people embrace alternative options for travel and exercise, to suit their lifestyle and values”, says Gibbons’ ESG Manager, Stephanie Millar.
Gibbons’ Development Business Manager, Brandon Kay, says construction continues to run smoothly and is meeting the targets of the current project timeline.
“A third of the new structure is now standing and with good progress on roofing and cladding we expect to start pouring floors next week. It’s always an exciting milestone to see the roof take shape on any project”.
As construction at Nelson Junction continues, planning work on future stages of the 9ha site is also under way, including groundwork on extending car parking spaces, the greenspace to the south of the site and an upgrade to the Pascoe Street site entrance.
The core economic market population is projected to increase by circa 6,720 people (+12% net) to 64,450 by 2038, which is based on the current growth profile. The Nelson Junction development will be able to meet the demand of the community and increase local employment opportunities.