One of Christchurch’s largest retail expansions is well underway in Shirley, with developers behind the Homebase precinct promising to bring new life and choice to the city’s underserved eastern suburbs.

Once complete, the redevelopment will transform Homebase into Christchurch’s largest large-format retail centre, covering more than 10 hectares of commercial space.

Speaking to chrislynchmedia.com, developer Mike Percasky said the project is designed to balance Christchurch’s commercial footprint, which has long been skewed toward the west.

“When you look at the map, about 75% of the city’s retail is on the western side. For too long, the eastern suburbs have been short-changed. This is our chance to fix that imbalance and create a destination hub,” he said.

Strategically positioned on the intersection of Marshland Road and New Brighton Road, the location offers massive visibility, access from multiple main routes, and plenty of parking.

Major retailers already opening

Several tenants have already moved in or are preparing to open their doors. Liquorland, an anchor tenant from stage one, has relocated to a larger, premium store — described as “probably the nicest liquor stores to walk into” with tasting events set to celebrate the move this Saturday from 3pm to 6pm. Repco Marshland is due to open on Monday, providing automotive supplies in a modern new fit-out. Lux Nail Bar is expected to launch in the coming weeks, offering a high-end beauty experience.

Further plans for later this year include the demolition and redevelopment of part of the original stage one site to make way for a “mini precinct” of food and lifestyle retailers. Confirmed tenants include: Coffee Culture, Sakana, a Japanese eatery,  Base Pizza, and Bootleg Burgers, a new gourmet burger concept.

Project Manager Chris Spragg said the momentum is building. “Mountain Warehouse is opening in early July. Bed Bath & Beyond is taking the next unit, and we’re currently finalising negotiations with two more retailers,” Spragg said. “It’s exciting to see demand grow  and there’s still leasing space available for businesses that want to be part of this.”

 

Stage two expansion to include supermarket, department store

Stage two of the development has already received resource consent, and discussions are underway with two major national brands, expected to anchor the expansion.“We’re hopeful that will include a full-service supermarket and a large department store,” said Percasky. “If it all lines up, we’ll end up with another 15 retailers, including cafes and eateries, which will bring even more variety and convenience to this area.”

The project represents a significant investment in the east, with developers confident it will stimulate both economic growth and employment in the surrounding suburbs.

Local residents have welcomed the development, with many saying it’s about time the east received attention from major commercial developers.

“People are excited,” said Percasky. “There’s a sense that this part of town is finally being noticed and invested in properly. It’s not just about shops, it’s about giving the community quality, convenience, and pride in their local area.”

When fully completed, Homebase is expected to serve not only Shirley but also neighbouring areas including Burwood, Dallington, Wainoni, and New Brighton, offering an east-side alternative to retail centres, The full expansion is expected to continue into 2025, with staggered openings as leases are finalised.

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