By Trend News Line 2024-04-14 00:19:27.
Tauranga’s City Centre Undergoes Massive Transformation
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Tauranga’s city centre is shedding its reputation as “dying” as it undergoes a massive transformation. Like many CBDs, Tauranga has experienced issues with businesses moving to malls and older buildings needing earthquake strengthening, leaving empty shops and giving the perception it’s not worth visiting. However, a huge number of construction projects are underway to revitalize the area and make it a place to be proud of.
Commissioner Stephen Selwood made a statement in 2022 during a council meeting about the $306 million civic precinct, Te Manawataki o Te Papa, that the council green-lit. The civic precinct project aims to revive the city’s heart and breathe new life into the once struggling city centre. Despite the disruption caused by these projects, Gareth Wallis, Tauranga City Council’s city development and partnerships general manager, is excited about the changes taking place.
Exciting Developments in Tauranga CBD
Wallis took Local Democracy Reporting on a tour of the city centre to witness the transformation firsthand. Starting in Red Square at the bottom of Devonport Road, Wallis highlighted plans to turn the area into a “sanctuary space” with added play elements as it undergoes a facelift in the coming months. Construction is also underway on the seven-storey Craigs Investment Partners building at 2 Devonport Rd, which will include office, retail, and hospitality spaces upon completion in 2025.
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A new home for council staff is being created at 90 Devonport Road, where the country’s largest mass timber construction office building is taking shape. The building, set to open early next year, will bring all council staff under the same roof for the first time in a decade. The interior design of the building mirrors the pōhutukawa tree growing on the seaward side, creating a unique and natural feel for employees.
More People, More Life
Wallis is not only excited about the completed buildings but also the number of people they will bring into the city’s heart. With around 600-700 council staff set to work from 90 Devonport and an additional 200-300 people at the Craigs building, over a thousand new faces will be in the city centre daily. This influx of people is expected to revitalize the area and attract new businesses, creating a vibrant and bustling city centre.
Challenges and Solutions
While many buildings along Devonport Road sit empty due to earthquake strengthening requirements and reluctant landlords, the council is working to activate these spaces by encouraging reduced rents. Wallis also addressed the issue of city centre parking, stating that there are more parks available now than a year ago, with the city’s two parking buildings at 40% capacity in January. The council is working on changing people’s perception of CBD parking to ensure a smoother experience for visitors.
Exciting Waterfront Makeover
The transformation in Tauranga’s CBD extends to the waterfront, where projects are underway to create new green spaces and recreational areas. The pocket park Tunks Reserve has been recently renovated, offering a peaceful retreat for visitors. The railway underpass connecting to The Strand extension via a boardwalk is nearing completion, and work is set to begin on turning The Strand carpark into a greenspace once seawall repairs are finished.
The Future Looks Bright
The city’s future looks promising with developments like the Northern Quarter, a two-tower project on The Strand, and the Te Manawataki o Te Papa site set to become a hub for culture and community. The site will house a new library, community hub, civic whare, and Tauranga’s first museum and exhibition centre, providing a space to showcase the city’s precious taonga and history. The city’s art gallery and performing arts centre will also undergo upgrades as part of the civic precinct project.
Overall, Tauranga’s city centre is undergoing a significant transformation that promises to breathe new life into the once struggling area. With new developments, vibrant spaces, and a focus on community and culture, Tauranga is set to become a destination worth visiting and a place its residents can be proud of..
1. Tauranga CBD revitalization
2. Tauranga city center rejuvenation.
