With the release of Tauranga’s new Long Term Plan and major roading works springing up around the city, it is clear we are finally going to see some major changes downtown.
One of the most remarkable transformations is taking shape in Elizabeth Street as Farmers moves its new building towards completion.
We plan to have a more comprehensive review of developments next year as the building nears completion, but are pleased to have a progress report from the company.
As noted by Brett Nicholls, project manager Elizabeth Towers/38 Elizabeth, it has been a challenging time in terms of keeping to the ambitious self-imposed deadlines we set for this build. “A build of this size would normally command a much longer schedule for completion.
But as a business invested in Tauranga and with a heart for seeing the CBD transformed and revitalised, we have put extra resources in to ensure the build is as fast as possible.
“It’s incredible to think how quickly we have come to this point since 2018 when the first sod was turned. There is no question that we would have been now open for business with the residential on the market had Covid not got in the way.
“But like everyone else in New Zealand, we are dealing with an evolving set of circumstances and making the best we can of it all.
Covid slowed the build rate
Nicholls said that as a result of the recently closed borders with Auckland and then Waikato, the build has slowed, but not as much as it could have thanks to the momentum the company built in the lead up before the lockdown.
“We are now starting to see some of the expertise we need from Auckland to be able to bring the development to completion. We are working very hard to land on a new set of firm dates for opening the retail, food and beverage terrace, and residential offering, in that order. We will announce these new dates as soon as possible.
As to food and beverage, Nicholls said the company was excited to have secured a beautiful café, the details of which will also be announced soon.
“The shared community space and streetscaping, including tree planting and greening, is really taking shape on Elizabeth Street below the food and beverage terrace. The end is certainly in sight and we can’t wait to throw the doors open, not only to our development, but to the transformation and revitalisation of Tauranga city.”
