The South Island’s biggest supermarket is set to open next week
Tuesday, 7 October 2025
Soon to be labelled the South Island’s largest supermarket, Pak’nSave Rolleston is due to open next week.
“Deliveries are being received, shelves are being stocked, and training is being completed,” Foodstuffs South Island said on Tuesday ahead of the official opening on October 14, with chief executive Mary Devine saying “the energy is building every day” around the project.
Here’s what you need to know about the new supermarket.
1. It’s massive, and a major investment in Selwyn
At 8100 square metres, Pak’nSave Rolleston will be the biggest supermarket in the South Island. With over $40 million invested, the build reflects the rapid growth of the Selwyn District, New Zealand’s fastest-growing region.
The store had a starting team of 280 workers, Devine said on Tuesday, providing a significant economic boost to the area.
2. Built to withstand seismic activity
The building has been constructed to Importance Level 3 (IL3) standards, meaning it can “withstand the forces generated by earthquakes,” Foodstuffs said.
Features include a reinforced seismic design and foundations, solar panels and backup generator, emergency storage capacity and enhanced building materials for resilience.
The store will also function as a local distribution hub during emergencies, increasing the region’s readiness and response capabilities, Foodstuffs said.
3. Designed with the future in mind
Sustainability and smart technology are built in to the store.
Shoppers can look forward to 485 car parks, 60 hand scanners which allow you to tally your spend as you go, 18 self-service checkouts, eight staffed checkouts, click and collect area and EV charging stations.
4. Operated by local owners
The supermarket will be owned and operated by Phillip and Sarah Blackburn, who have more than 24 years of experience in the grocery industry. They’ve previously owned and operating Pak’nSave Riccarton, New World Ilam and New World Balclutha, as well as serving as store manager at New World Wanaka.
The Blackburns said they planned to partner with local schools and the Ministry of Social Development to create accessible employment.
“We’ve got a big week ahead,” Phillip said on Tuesday. “The store is looking incredible, the team is rearing to go, and this time next week we’ll be cutting the ribbon and welcoming people through the doors.”
5. Opening day confirmed
The opening day of October 14 was confirmed earlier this year, marking a launch two months earlier than originally planned.
An opening event on the day, from 9am, is expected to include welcome from mana whenua, speeches and ribbon cutting, Devine said.
CORRECTION: An earlier version of this store said the new supermarket would be constructed to Importance Level 3 standards, “the same used for emergency service buildings”. This is incorrect - emergency service buildings are constructed to Importance Level 4 standards. (Amended at 1.10pm on October 14, 2025)