The centre of New Zealand's fastest-growing town is set for a major expansion with two new blocks of commercial buildings as Rolleston's long-promised town square moves ahead.
Rolleston's next stage of the development will see new commercial buildings constructed in Rolleston Fields, providing a mix of retail and much-needed office space in the centre of township.
The town square will form a central link between Rolleston Fields, a pedestrian-friendly, laneway-style shopping precinct, and the public spaces at Te Ara Ātea and the remaining Rolleston Reserve.
Mayor Lydia Gliddon said the town centre work demonstrates the value of planning well for long-term growth.
"A strong town centre gives people more reasons to stay local, supports businesses, and employment, and helps make sure Rolleston grows in a way that works for the community over the long term."
Rolleston is expected to officially become a city with over 50,000 residents within the next 10 years.
Selwyn District Council has committed to completing the town square, the last public space to be created as part of the Rolleston Town Centre plan, confirmed in 2019.
Rolleston Fields director Caroline Cooper-Dixon said the next stage will continue the vision to make the town centre somewhere people can work, meet, eat, shop and access local services.
"The best town centres are not created overnight.
"They evolve over time, with different reasons for people to visit throughout the day.
"Stage 2 will continue that approach; designed to support a more active town centre."
The council will lead the design of the town square, while Cooper Developments delivers the commercial building.
Construction of two new blocks of commercial buildings is expected to begin in February with the first two buildings planned to be completed in August 2027 and all buildings by December 2027.
The council will also be seeking community input on the uses of the updated town square plan in the new year, to ensure the final public space meets the long-term needs of the town and the district.
It will likely feature as a key issue in the long-term plan development around its design and cost.
Stage one of Rolleston Fields opened in 2022, next to Te Ara Atea, a multi-functional library and community centre that opened in 2021.
Stage Two will continue the partnership between the council and Cooper Developments, which will deliver the commercial areas of Rolleston Fields.
Its expansion took a strategic pause starting in 2024 due to broader economic conditions.
