Nelson Junction construction well underway

Construction of the large-format retail centre, Nelson Junction is well underway with a third of the structure now standing.

Gibbons is developing part of the 30,000m2 site, which is currently home to the Nelson Mitre 10 Mega store and Speights Ale House Nelson.

The new building includes 12 retail tenancies that will range in size from 500m² to 1,500 m².

A Gibbons spokesperson says as soon as they are in a position to do so, announcements will be made as to what tenants will take up occupancy 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.

“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 Jack Architects, incorporates several features that help reduce its environmental impact.

The laminated veneer timber structure, 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.

The site will consist of over 850 carparks, including several EV charging stations for both the public and staff, with both standard and e-bike stations as well.

All tenancies will 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 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.