Paul Lonsdale, Manager of Central City Business Association, lets Cityscape in on some of the hidden gems the city has.

Why should locals come into the central city to explore? The city rebuild has taken some massive steps forward in the last year with many new stores, cafe’s, bars and restaurants opening up. You can also see major advances in the new Convention Centre project, the Riverside Market and the Town Hall. The completion of the Promenade along the river is an absolute delight to walk or even Lime scooter along.

What are some of the hidden gems among the laneways as the city develops? The new laneways are a discovery mission – don’t expect to be able to see everything in one visit! Some of the gems are Sweet Soul Patisserie, Dual (Christchurch made denim clothing), chilling out on a bean bag in BNZ Centre Square or over a cold beer at Smash Palace along High Street, Chiwahwah on The Terrace, Miro on Oxford Terrace and so much more. We also have a great street art scene and you can find these artistic gems hiding all over the city. I was in Melbourne recently and checked out their street art in their laneways. The quality of our street art is, in my opinion, is of a much higher standard in every way.

What are the challenges/opportunities for businesses within the laneways? The challenge initially will be potentially less foot traffic and not being visible to passing traffic, but over time these laneways could become the hip place to be. The laneways need to ensure they are made inviting and have activity of some sort to engage and encourage visitors.

Of all the laneways and spaces within the central city, which is your favourite? The BNZ Centre Square has started to become quite vibrant with all the bean bags and people hanging out. I also think the laneways around Poplar/Ash Streets are very cool. Once the laneways around The Terrace development are fully completed this will only get better and better.

What does the future of the inner city look like? We’re currently a very new city and we have a lot of new buildings that have yet to gain character, but over time their personality will develop and grow. Businesses will come and go over time and you will see ground floor frontages change to provide some of that character and personality. This will help the precinct areas establish their individual identity.