Several prime retail tenancies at the heart of North Canterbury’s fastest-growing township are now available for lease, presenting rare opportunities for occupiers to join a revitalised centre with strong fundamentals, Bayleys brokers say.

Bayleys Canterbury Commercial and Industrial Sales and Leasing specialist Alex White is marketing the tenancies within the Amberley Shopping Centre at 119-135 Carter Road for lease by negotiation, alongside colleague Terry Connolly.

White says the complex was formerly known as ‘Brackenfields Shopping Centre’ and has undergone significant rebranding and enhancement under new ownership by an institutional investment firm, which acquired the site in late 2023.

“Now known as the Amberley Shopping Centre, the destination has been repositioned as a vibrant, mixed-use community hub, supporting immediately adjacent rapid residential growth while servicing the broader Hurunui District.”

Options for lease range from approximately 80sqm to 419sqm, offering flexibility to suit a wide range of retail or hospitality businesses.

Located on State Highway 1, the site enjoys exposure to more than 21,000 vehicles per day and a broad catchment including residents, regional workers, and domestic tourists heading north to Hanmer Springs or Waipara’s renowned wineries.

White says the centre’s strategic location and tenant mix make it an ideal choice for forward-thinking occupiers.

“Amberley has long-been the commercial and civic heart of the Hurunui District, but what we’re seeing now is a step-change in its growth profile. New subdivisions are rising around the township, which is translating to increased demand for essential services, hospitality offerings and retail convenience.”

Anchored by supermarket Woolworths, and home to national and local brands including Super Liquor, NZ Post, and popular eateries, the centre currently supports 15 essential and speciality tenancies across its 2.7ha (more or less) footprint.

Bayleys Canterbury Industrial Sales and Leasing specialist Terry Connolly says the recently rebranded centre has a clear vision for its future and a landlord committed to a considered retail mix.

“The complex owner has invested heavily in the centre’s revitalisation and is focused on creating a best-in-class community retail destination. Flexible lease terms and modern amenities make this a compelling environment for service providers and consumer-focused businesses ready to capture a growing market.”

“The shopping centre is well-equipped for convenience, with extensive parking, including spaces for campervans, and public facilities that make it a natural stop for both locals and travellers. It also features community meeting spaces and office tenancies, contributing to an ecosystem that supports a broad customer base,” Connolly says.

The region’s broader economic strength further underpins the opportunity. Amberley is a key service centre for agricultural, horticulture and forestry, and plays host to a range of festivals and wine events that draw visitors throughout the year.

“Add to that a rise in residential development and local infrastructure investment, and Amberley Shopping Centre is exceptionally well-positioned to support occupiers. Business owners searching for new premises have a chance to be a part of the town’s growth story, one that blends community, commerce and convenience in a region with undeniable momentum,” Connolly says.