NZ retailers call for roadworks halt in Wellington CBD

Retail NZ has joined two other business associations that are calling on Wellington City Council to revise its CBD roadworks program, claiming the ongoing maintenance is affecting the survival of businesses during the current recessionary times. 

Following last week’s vote to retain its shares in Wellington Airport, the council is being called on to amend its long-term roadworks plan. 

Thirteen sections along the Golden Mile strip in Pipitea are up for an overhaul, according to Wellington City Council’s Transport Projects website, with many sections currently undergoing upgrades right now, with some of these expected to be completed in 2025.

Along the strip is the Capital Gateway shopping mall, home to fashion retailers such as Cotton On and Cotton On Kids, pre-loved business The Vogue Store and kids clothing store Bambini. Fashion designer Angelina Harrington also operates a store along the street.

Retail NZ, Hospitality NZ and the Bus & Coach Association said this is an ideal opportunity for the council to step back and review its plans to redevelop the Golden Mile, especially in view of the disastrous impacts the Thorndon Quay project is having on local businesses.

“We heard last week of the closure of Bordeaux Bakery, with the loss of 40 jobs,” Retail NZ CEO Carolyn Young said. “Other retail and hospitality businesses along Thorndon Quay say that their turnover has been severely affected by the roadworks, and we expect more will face closure or need to move out of the area.”

Bus & Coach Association CEO Delaney Myers said that to make matters worse, the speed calming measures being put in place along this major transport route have been roundly criticised by public transport operators.

“The traffic calming measures on Thorndon Quay are inappropriate for buses, trucks and emergency vehicles, and will lead to increased vehicle emissions and damage, as well as slower emergency response. Wellingtonians deserve better planned projects,” she said.

Meanwhile, Hospitality NZ CEO Steve Armitage said that with the prospect of work on Courtenay Place starting in the new year, businesses in that area are already fearing the impacts after a tough year of trading in 2024.

“We want to see the council engage in a thorough consultation on the planned works, listening to businesses to understand their needs. Thorndon Quay has caused major disruptions – let’s use this opportunity to do it right and consult properly,” he said.

An article on the Transport Projects website stated that the projects aim to rebalance the streets to allow low-carbon transport options in Wellington. 

“The work underway on Thorndon Quay is part of connecting our northern suburbs through to the city, making it safer and easier for more people to walk, bike, scoot or use public transport. 

“Thorndon Quay is one of the most important commuter routes for Wellingtonians. Each day during the week, about 10,000 people travel this route by bus, making it the busiest bus route outside of the city centre. 

“About 1300 people travel this route by bike each work day, and this number is expected to increase significantly when Te Ara Tupua opens in 2026, providing a safe cycle route between the Hutt Valley and Wellington.”