Construction has begun on a new medium-term development at the centre of the Britomart precinct. The development, on the area previously occupied by the temporary car park, consists of four retail and exhibition showcases.

The showcases will be housed in two structures connected by a central sculpture garden, featuring seven pou by artist Chris Bailey.

The development is due for completion in August, in time for the arrival of thousands of international rugby fans in September.

Eventually the area at the centre of the precinct will be developed with a mixed-use complex, of similar scale to the Ernst & Young and Westpac on Takutai Square development.

Elsewhere in the precinct, the refurbishment of Takutai Square is now nearing completion. The Pipi Beds installation has been returned to its home in the south-east corner of the square and the pop jet fountains will soon be reinstated. New seating is also planned for the Square.

Living & Giving-Urban Loft is due to move out of Australis House and the Nathan Building at the end of June.

From the end of August, the Australis-Nathan ground floor will be used as an event venue for hire, and will also host a number of special events and activities in September and October. These will be part of a wider programme of events taking place at Britomart for the Real New Zealand festival, the official festival of the Rugby World Cup.

The Australis-Nathan space will remain available as an event venue until mid-2012, when the full refurbishment of the two buildings is due to begin.

Stay tuned to britomart.org for more info!