Competition told to raise bar on eve of opening

Media release

Newmarket Business Association

Monday 28 August 2006

Competition told to raise the bar on eve of street opening

The official opening of a completely redeveloped street in Newmarket tomorrow morning will showcase Auckland retailing in a world-class light after an unfortunate tacky topless parade on Queen Street and a lack-lustre stage-two opening of the region’s biggest mall – Sylvia Park, says head of the Newmarket Business Association, Cameron Brewer tonight.

“Last week was just one big cringe. The opening of Nuffield Street is about returning a quality and dignified impression of retailing in Auckland. The quite feral scenes beamed around the world last week did nothing for Auckland’s once proud main street. Then on top of the bad-taste boobs, Sylvia Park served up an anticlimax with its stage two fashion precinct opening falling completely flat. Despite the publication of a traffic management plan, a lot less people than expected turned up to the mega mall’s latest offering probably because the range of shops is nothing new.

“We in Newmarket are keen to show our commitment to making Auckland a place of world-class experiences and destinations we can all be proud of. It’s a pity both our oldest and newest competition in retailing seem more interested in promoting mediocrity. I challenge them to start pitching above the lowest common denominator and deliver events and projects that showcase our city and country in its best light. As business districts we must take a lead in setting the tone of Auckland.

“We are very proud of the Nuffield Street development and each of its 29 boutiques. It’s completely international and its developer Westfield deserves a pat on the back for breaking out of its big-box thinking and refurbishing the entire street and its 60-year-old buildings.

Auckland City Mayor Dick Hubbard will officially open Nuffield Street at a function that begins in Newmarket 10am tomorrow.

ENDS

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