Prime Minister launches Petone as big box retail destination

The redevelopment of Petone as a big box retail destination took a step closer last night as Prime Minister the Rt Hon John Key officially turned the sod of the Petone development, 47 The Esplanade.

Mr Key along with local MPs and Hutt City Deputy Mayor, David Bassett welcomed the next stage of the development at an event last night.

The development is being undertaken by the Hodge Group, who purchased the ex NZ Post sorting office in 2014.

“We are delighted to have the support and recognition from the Prime Minister and the Deputy Mayor,” says Mr Hodge. “This is an exciting development which highlights the huge potential of Petone.

“The $10 million refurbishment of the building is a significant step in the right direction for this region. 47 The Esplanade will be a vital part of the region’s growth plans.”

Bunnings will be moving into 47 The Esplanade, along with a number of businesses. The new Bunnings Warehouse will be the largest in Wellington, sitting in a strategic location for both the Hutt Valley and Wellington.

Mr Hodge explains that the development will provide significant business growth and employment opportunities in the region.

“Over 80 people are being employed during the construction phase of the development, and Bunnings alone will contribute around 180 full time equivalents on opening,” he says.

“There is outstanding opportunity for this region to grow, and we feel privileged to be contributing to that growth.”

The development is due to be complete in the first half of next year, with Bunnings expected to open in March. New Zealand Post will still be part of the complex, but at a smaller scale. The new post box facility will be open next week.

The launch event was attended by over 250 of the regions key businesses and supporters.

The development of 47 The Esplanade has been a real partnership of local businesses with contributions and support from Alaska, Bayleys, BNZ, Harrison Grierson, Ideal, Parlante, Peryer Construction, RCC and DesignGroup Stapleton Elliot.

-ENDS-

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