The former NZ Post building which is being converted into residential apartments.
Construction has started on the first residential development in Porirua’s city centre.
Mayor Mike Tana says the apartments being built in the former NZ Post building on Serlby Place mark a significant milestone for the revitalisation of Porirua’s city centre.
“This is a fantastic milestone in our journey to transform our city centre. Porirua is a great place for residential opportunities and apartment living in the heart of the city supports our vision of having a 24/7 city centre.”
Mayor Tana says the redevelopment of the Serlby Place property will give confidence to other businesses wanting to invest in Porirua’s city centre, which will include new commercial premises as well as the development of 36 apartments.
“Porirua City is “open for business” and the private sector is taking advantage of that. We’re creating a welcoming environment for everyone.”
The Wellington Company Managing Director Ian Cassels says the apartments will be a mix of sizes and configurations to accommodate different needs.
“Structural work is now underway on the existing building with construction of the 36 apartments to then follow,” says Mr Cassels.
“We have contracted Capital Construction to do the work and we are on track to complete it by November 2018, which will include the new ground floor commercial areas.
“The apartments will cater for a range of tenants, including hotel-type units, business travellers to Porirua, tourists and weekend visitors to the area, and students. Some apartments will likely be available for purchase by long-term owners. The proximity of Porirua to easy public transport into Wellington is expected to be a big drawcard, with a 5 minute walk to the Porirua train station for the 15 min ride into Wellington city centre. Some of the apartments will enjoy views over Porirua Harbour. Some car parking will be provided, with ample additional parking available in the immediate vicinity.
“We are very excited by this, our first venture into the exciting reinvigoration of Porirua city centre,” says Mr Cassels.
Other work commencing soon in the city centre will add to the attraction of living in the heart of town. Modern public spaces to sit and enjoy the sun, a new children’s play area, wayfinding signage, better lighting and CCTV improvements will be completed over the next few months.
“We’ll be creating spaces for more events and activities, a better environment for people who live and work here, and improving connections to and from the city centre and neighbouring communities,” Mayor Tana says.
“By investing in these public spaces we are showing our commitment to the city’s growth, which will encourage more private sector investment,” Mayor Tana says.
24 Jan 2018
