Progress being made on new Wainuiomata shopping centre

It has taken decades but progress in finally being made on the new shopping centre that will replace the Wainuiomata Mall.

Earlier this week, Mayor Campbell Barry laid a mauri stone, a taonga that has the wairua (spirit or soul) of the local people and preserves the welfare of those who stand above it.

"The site blessing and laying of the mauri stone is a significant milestone in the redevelopment of the Wainuiomata Mall. The redevelopment in this area has been on the cards for decades, and I know how much it means to local people to see things pick up speed."

The Wainuiomata Shopping Centre will feature a brand new Countdown, a new office building for the Ministry of Social Development, and a new road connection between The Strand and Queen Street.

Countdown is expected to be open next year. The new store will have an in-store Pharmacy, an expansive fresh produce department, an instore bakery and a dedicated health food section.