By Jess Pullar
Retailers in the north precinct of Re:Start Mall have re-opened in their new location on Oxford Terrace.
Twenty Re:Start retailers were forced to close their doors at the start of June to allow development to start on the former Shades site. Those who elected to remain in the mall have been relocated to an alternate site on the southern side of the mall.
Some were working into the early hours in preparation for their re-opening today.
Hapa storeowner Maureen Taane said she got access at 9am yesterday morning and finished setting up at 3am.
Simply New Zealand store manager Wendy Andrews worked until midnight getting everything unpacked into the new space.
Despite the long hours, they were happy with the smooth transition into the new location.
“It’s gone spectacularly well,” Taane said. “The mall has a more open feel than the previous Re:Start.”
The weather was an issue for some businesses, who had to trek through mud to move their merchandise, but they were happy to be open.
“It definitely would have been better if it was a fine day,” said Infinite Definite retail assistant Jackie Lee.
Retailers were positive about the future of the Re:Start Mall.
“I think there is only going to be growth in business,” said Andrews.
Last winter, Hapa saw a decline in numbers coming into the mall, but she believes the new location should boost them.
“It’s given another reason for people to come into town.”
Most of the existing stores in Re:Start have moved to the new location with the addition of some new stores, including a hair dressing salon.
