Retail NZ calling on government to halt Golden Mile upgrade

Tuesday, 25 February 2025

The work on Courtenay Place could take up to three years.

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Retail NZ is calling on the government to use its sway to halt the upgrade of Wellington’s Golden Mile.

In a letter to Transport Minister Chris Bishop and Local Government Minister Simon Watts, chief executive Carolyn Young has described the redevelopment of Courtenay Place as grandiose and completely at odds with the wishes of the sector.

The letter, which asked the ministers to “consider using their influence” to halt the project, was cc’d to Mayor Tory Whanau, councillors and local MPs Julie Anne Genter, Ayesha Verrall, Greg O’Connor and Tamatha Paul.

Mayor Tory Whanau is calling the design a 'game-changer' that would will mark a key step in Wellington's transformation into a more modern, walkable city.

It said Retail NZ was “deeply concerned” the council planned to push ahead with the project, despite strong opposition and the likelihood it would result in business closures.

“While everyone acknowledges that the area is run down and needs some tidying up, the council’s $116 million project is a champagne solution at a time when it should be focusing on doing the basics well on a beer budget,” Young said.

“We have attended a number of meetings with businesses on and around Courtenay Place and have yet to meet a business that is supportive of the changes.”

It was expected the work would begin in April and take up to three years.

“At a time when many retailers are struggling to simply survive, the prospect of years of disruption on their doorsteps is hugely concerning and will likely lead to the closure of many businesses – harming the Government’s stated intention of creating economic growth,” Young said.

“The council has made it clear there will be limited compensation ($1500) for affected businesses, putting jobs and livelihoods at risk. The lesson of the City Rail Link in Auckland is that projects like this drive businesses to the brink.”

The first designs for the Golden Mile project that Mayor Tory Whanau says will mark a key step in Wellington's transformation.

Retailers wanted the council to reconsider the extent of the project, allow for greater support to business, and shorter overall time-frame of disruption. They were also worried about where funding would come from should there be any cost overruns.

Whanau, who unveiled the design for the area last week, said the project, was a significant step towards revitalising the city centre.

She said Wellingtonians had been consulted five times on the project since 2016 and the message was clear: “They want more pedestrian spaces, better public transport, and fewer private cars in our city centre.

Retail NZ's Carolyn Young says the council’s $116 million project “is a champagne solution at a time when it should be focusing on doing the basics well on a beer budget”.

“While we anticipate some short-term disruptions during construction, the revitalisation of Courtenay Place is a vital investment in our future. This is the bold vision we need to make Wellington a world-class destination.”

She said the improvements were essential to attract businesses, residents, and investment, and Courtenay Place would remain open throughout construction.

“We’re committed to supporting our businesses. We will provide two months’ notice before construction begins and maintain close collaboration.”

There would be clear signage to help guide customers around worksite barriers, ensuring they could easily access their favourite shops, cafés, and bars, Whanau said.

Bishop said The Golden Mile project received approval and funding under the previous government. “The project is the sole responsibility of Wellington City Council.“

A contract for the majority of the project is yet to be signed.

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