Cityscape chats with Richard Peebles, Kris Inglis and Mike Percasky who are leading the charge in terms of developments around the city.

Why should locals get out and explore the inner city? There is so much to see and do. The city is really starting to come alive with some vibrant retail and interesting hospitality places along with some amazing architecture and cultural attractions like the new library, riverside promenade, Margaret Mahy playground, etc. People need to get out and discover and connect with the inner city as there really are a lot of very cool and interesting parts of the rebuild that we can all be very proud to call home; places that are starting to create a point of difference to other NZ cities.

What are some of the hidden gems among the laneways as the city develops? Every laneway will be slightly different and offer a new opportunity for discovery. Each area or lane will have a new cluster of retail and hospitality places that will hopefully flow out onto the laneways and draw people in. Amongst the lanes are also parks and gardens; places to sit, relax, people watch and let the world go by!

What are the challenges/opportunities for businesses within the laneways? The challenges and opportunities are kind of the same … it's all about discovery and finding a new, cool, interesting place that is tucked into a laneway. Once people work out these interesting, special places they will hopefully want to come back and spread the word about how unique and cool these places are. 

Of all the laneways and spaces within the central city, which is your favourite? Little High Lane around the Little High Eatery. Great vibe and energy, amazing retail and food, plus easy access from the lanes or car park. It also opens up onto a plaza that has plenty of space for kids to run around. Watch this space as there is more to come with art and lighting as this laneway is in the heart of the SALT District. 

What does the future of the inner city look like? A place you want to keep coming back into, to taste and discover more or revisit your favourite nook or cranny. A vibrant buzz of local people and tourists walking, cycling and scootering around the city; living, working and soaking up the fantastic hospitality, retail, arts, culture and public spaces; plus appreciating the new, varied and impressive architecture. Hopefully the city will be a thriving place that encompasses community spirit and engagement, resulting in a vibrant, interesting, inclusive city that people want to be part of.

What are the biggest challenges for developers in the city at the moment? There are always challenges with development, from securing land to resource and building consents, construction pricing and finding finance, but the key to all developments is still securing really good quality, authentic, solid tenants with a great track record and vision for the future - something we have been very fortunate with at 181 High Street, the Duncan Buildings and Riverside Market. 

You've got a lot going on - which development or part of a development is your favourite? All of them are really interesting and all very different. The McKenzie & Willis and Duncan Building redevelopments are a favourite due to the complexity of retaining the old facades and integrating that into a new modern complex. Riverside Market is a favourite due to the scale and desire to make it into a world-class inner city food and produce market that rivals those you see in Europe, the States, and across the ditch in Australia. We really want to create something amazing for the city that people will feel a real connection to. The Riverside Market will provide a unique inner-city experience for locals and visitors to Christchurch. Providing a reliable source of fresh, organic, locally grown food, Riverside will be a community of local independent traders, showcasing the best food producers and creators in our city and region. As a community gathering place it will be a hive of activity and a celebration of the diversity of Christchurch.

As developers, you're leaving a lasting impression on the city. What do you hope you'll be remembered for in 100 years? I am sure we will all be long gone and forgotten by then! However in 100 years hopefully people will be celebrating the centennial of the Riverside Market, and saying: "... it’s brilliant how that market has an energy and vibrancy that is as good as anywhere else in the world and has stood the test of time.” I do also think the historic facades at Mackenzie & Willis and Duncans Buildings - which are now 100 years old - will then be 200 years old and someone might just say:”... what a great idea to save and restore them … Who did that again?” 

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