Entertainment And Fashion Boost For St Lukes

Friday, December 14, 2001

Entertainment And Fashion Boost For St Lukes

Westfield Trust today announced that work will begin in January 2002, on a $55 million extension and upgrade to Westfield Shoppingtown St Lukes.

The project will include a new cinema and entertainment precinct, new 700-seat food court, 38 specialty stores and 200 additional car-parking spaces.

Westfield New Zealand Director, John Widdup says customers at the centre will reap the benefits of a new world-class movie and entertainment precinct.

“Village Force will open a new 8 screen state of the art multiplex early 2003, which will become the cornerstone of a second level extension to the centre, containing retail, entertainment and fun for all the family.

“The cinemas will boast large screens, stadium seating and digital sound in large auditoriums.

“A new and expanded food court will be located on level one of the centre and a new galleria-style sky lit mall will be added on level two with an extended mix of fashion and lifestyle brands and dining options.

“The St Lukes centre, built in 1971, is the flagship of the Westfield portfolio with current sales at $225 million. It is vital that its pre-eminent position is maintained, ensuring it incorporates the latest attractions and retail concepts,” said John Widdup.

“Shopping centres incorporating these types of facilities and ambience are becoming more than just places to shop, but places to browse, dine, meet friends and be entertained.”

Village Force Cinemas Chief Executive, Joe Moodabe, said: “We are delighted to be moving ahead with these cinemas at St Lukes where we will incorporate the best in design, comfort and technology.”

“The all-new complex at St Lukes is important, as it is one of the last remaining inner city suburbs not well served with entertainment options.

“We believe the location, along with the facilities we can offer jointly with Westfield, such as easy access and car-parking, will make it very popular,” said Joe Moodabe.

On completion, the centre will have an area of 37,000 sqm, containing a Farmers Department Store, a K Mart Discount Department Store, Foodtown Supermarket, a new eight-screen complex and 150 specialty stores, making it the largest shopping centre in New Zealand.

The $55 million investment is part of the Westfield Trust’s long term development programme which is in excess of NZ$1.2 billion over the next 10 years, ensuring that Westfield Trust’s portfolio is the premier shopping centre portfolio in New Zealand.

Construction of the project is estimated to take around 14 months and generate around 1000 jobs during construction, and 300 permanent additional jobs going forward. This is in addition to the 1000 people that are currently employed at the centre.

ENDS

For further information please contact:

Sue Warren
National Manager Communications
Westfield (New Zealand) Limited
Email: sue.warren@westfield.co.nz
Tel: 09 978 5050
Mob: 021 421 301

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