The re-development of Pakuranga Plaza is still going ahead, the shopping centre’s owners have confirmed.
Plans released in November 2015 promised a development that would see the site transformed into an urban village with projected investment at the time of $500 million.
In 2015 it was announced the proposed development would include more than 900 dwellings, a community hub with new library, civic plaza and public open spaces, 10,000m2 of commercial space, 60,000m2 of retail, services, food and beverage entertainment outlets, a hotel, a conference centre and improved pedestrian environment.
Owners Singapore-based Sedar Properties, which has been investing in and developing real estate in Singapore, Australia and New Zealand since the late 80s, told the Times that many of the mixed-use components are still relevant, however, this has been redesigned in the latest consent submission.
“After many challenging years of planning and negotiations with various parties, we were able to submit our resource consent six months ago [around April 2023], which is currently being processed by [Auckland] Council,” a Sedar Properties spokesperson said.
Timelines, Sedar said, are out of their control.
“Whilst we won’t be able to reveal the plans just yet, you can be assured that we’re very much looking forward to progressing on this journey.
“The redevelopment has taken us longer than anticipated and although we are disappointed to lose Farmers [which closed in October], the regeneration of the town centre will require us to lose tenants along the way to allow for a staged development.”
Meanwhile, the former Farmers site has been replaced with homeware products store Panda Mart which sells everything from beauty and health products to home décor, tech electronics to educational toys for kids.
Panda Mart said the 6000 square metre-store will rival established offerings like Kmart.
Panda Mart senior manager Amy Xie is excited with Panda Mart’s move into the New Zealand market.
“While we already operate numerous stores in South Africa and nearby countries, the launch in New Zealand has been met with considerable success, particularly at the Pakuranga Plaza, aligning with our expectations,” Xie said.
“Our fundamental mission is to offer quality and cost-effective goods to the New Zealand market, and we express our gratitude for the unwavering support received from the local community.
“I think we are meeting demand for New Zealanders facing cost of living pressures right now.”
Xie acknowledged the proposed plans by Auckland Transport in progress around the Plaza and its effects on the business environment.
“Consequently, we advocate for comprehensive Government planning and support mechanisms to address and navigate these potential challenges effectively,” said Xie.
“Being a recently inaugurated establishment, we are committed to rectifying any arising issues promptly. We sincerely appreciate our customers’ understanding as we navigate and improve upon various aspects of our operations.”
Sedar said Panda Mart brings a fresh perspective to the world of homeware retail.
“Panda Mart takes pride in being a retailer that offers a diverse array of homeware products. Their mission is to help customers shop smarter and live better across the globe.
“Their passion for excellent service and customer satisfaction sets them apart from other retail stores. Panda Mart aims to create a welcoming atmosphere, ensuring every shopper leaves the store not only with fantastic purchases but also with a positive experience.
“Panda Mart is dedicated to offering great products at affordable prices, catering to a wide range of customers.
“Their reputation for competitive pricing, diverse offerings and excellent service has resulted in a multitude of happy customers across the globe. This approach also contributes to job creation, supporting our local economy.”
“We’re excited to have Panda Mart join our retail family, and in addition to our other valued retailers, we believe their unique offerings will enhance the shopping experience for our community.”
