Watching development at Yaldhurst Park, west of the central business district, it’s hard to believe that only ten years ago, Christchurch was a city on its knees following two devastating earthquakes and subsequent aftershocks. Yet, from that pain has come fresh, bold, beginnings and this brand new, master-planned community is certainly one of them.
Yaldhurst as a suburb is already well-established and increasingly popular so the Infinity Investment Group project, bringing 28 hectares of adjacent land to life with 256 lots on their Yaldhurst Park subdivision, was always going to be a success, according to development manager Jerome O’Sullivan.
“It’s a growing area, and we knew that the demand was there,” he says.
“Sure enough, when we started marketing the properties, buyers were so keen that we actually sold 20 sites - unconditionally - during the 2020 level four Covid-19 lockdown alone.
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Homeowners from all walks of life have flocked to take their place in the smart houses currently under construction on the subdivision, which should be completed in a year’s time.
With potentially over 700 new inhabitants, ranging from young professionals, and families, through to downsizing retirees - plus those already living in the general area, it was acknowledged from the outset that a significant commercial and retail hub would be required to meet their needs.
Jerome O’Sullivan says that Infinity Investments is now seeking to develop the 8000sqm commercial precinct to accommodate a 2800sqm neighbourhood retail development with 112 car parks
“Separately, McDonald’s, NPD service station, and Inspire Medical Centre have bought sites from us and they are already operating from them.”
He adds that a childcare centre is under construction and is due to open in September 2021.
“There’s such great potential here for businesses such as restaurants, cafes, a liquor store, ethnic restaurants; you name it, really.”
He says that the opportunity to be the Yaldhurst Park commercial anchor tenant opportunity is still available, and would suit a large business, such as a supermarket.
O’Sullivan points out that the size of the retail premises available for lease, ranging from 80 sqm to 1200 sqm, offer incredible versatility for new owners.
“They can be tailored to fit a business’s particular needs, if required.”
Photo / Supplied.
Not only will Yaldhurst Park’s commercial and retail hub enjoy the regular patronage of local residents, it’s also well-connected to main roads and close to Christchurch Airport so drive-by traffic, including people bound for the region’s mountains and rivers will likely stop and use the facilities too.
As with most contemporary developments a strong focus has been cast on environmental responsibility, and O’Sullivan says that another big part of the new commercial area’s appeal is the fact that many local residents will be able to access it easily on foot, or by using electric bikes.
O’Sullivan says that Christchurch’s popularity is soaring, with new residents arriving from all over the country -and from overseas, all looking forward to being part of the ‘new’ post-quake city, with its clever innovations and excellent facilities.
Yaldhurst Park is conveniently situated across the road from the new, impressively equipped Christchurch Football Centre, and that too will bring more visitors to the neighbourhood.
“I think it’s important that potential tenants have a vision of what this will be like because it’s when the people move in that their demand for services begins.
“We’re putting this out there at the moment, so that tenants have time to capitalise on the advantage of securing a footprint now and be set to enjoy their increasing market share when the houses are all completed, next year.”
He says that Infinity Investment Group will retain ownership of the current retail offering.
“Whichever way you look at it, these are exciting times, and we’re very proud of what we’re creating here.
“Careful planning drives more sustainable urban environments and apart from anything else, we were incredibly lucky in being able to secure such a great site, O’Sullivan says.
