Work to revitalise Courtenay Place as part of the Golden Mile upgrade starts later this week, with a blessing/karakia marking the first stage of redevelopment today.

Redevelopment work starts Sunday 4 May, and includes the construction of new pedestrian and bike crossings, weather shelters, and improved footpaths. This phase of the project is expected to take around eight months to minimise traffic disruption in the area.

Mayor Tory Whanau says the upgrade of Courtenay Place – one of the capital’s main retail, commercial and entertainment areas – is a game-changer for Wellington.

“Today we turn the first sod on a project that will revitalise the heart of our city and create a vibrant, accessible, and thriving environment for all,” says Mayor Tory Whanau following the blessing and sod-turning ceremony.

“This project is an important investment in our future. We will be working closely with businesses, residents and stakeholders to rejuvenate our city centre and ensure its positive impact for generations to come.”

A dedicated team of Council staff and contractors will be available throughout the project to actively engage with residents and businesses, and provide prompt support for any concerns that may arise.

“We’re supporting businesses affected by the project with things like direct contact with the construction team to solve issues quickly, clear signage to help customers access businesses, noise control like safety fencing, and tailored mentoring and training through WellingtonNZ and the Regional Business Partners Network,” adds Mayor Whanau.

Most of the construction work will be done during the day, and some work will take place at night to minimise disruption to transport routes and businesses.

Wellington City Council Manager Transport and Infrastructure Brad Singh says the revitalisation of Courtenay Place is part of the $116 million Golden Mile project, jointly funded by Council and Waka Kotahi New Zealand Transport Agency.

“Revitalising the central city will mean disruption in the short-term, but in the long-term, residents, businesses and tourists will benefit from better infrastructure, increased numbers of visitors, and world-class amenities.

“We’ll improve traffic flow and bus reliability, create wider footpaths and dedicated bike lanes, add more public seating and outdoor dining areas, include cultural design elements developed in partnership with mana whenua, and increase native planting. At the same time, we have also budgeted to spend up to an additional $23m upgrading pipes under the Golden Mile.”

The Golden Mile project also includes essential infrastructure upgrades like installing new pipes, replacing slippery pavements, and enhancing the road for smoother traffic flow.

The design, created in partnership with mana whenua, celebrates the city's unique cultural history. Features include ngā ūranga – interactive sculptures where people can sit, relax, and share kai – and paving patterns that evoke the city's hidden awa (waterway).

Once this section is completed, and a contract for further Golden Mile construction is signed, work on Courtenay Place itself can begin in late 2025 or early 2026.

“Wellingtonians, through five consultations since 2016, have consistently made it clear they want more pedestrian spaces, better public transport, and fewer private cars in the city centre,” says Mayor Whanau.

"We will prioritise pedestrians, public transport, and green spaces – making the heart of our city accessible, safe and welcoming.”

Check out transportprojects.org.nz/courtenay for more information and timeline, or to receive regular updates sign up to the Golden Mile e-newsletter.

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