Call for retailers to pitch for Devonport Wharf

Artist's street level impression of the remodelled Devonport Wharf.

Development of Devonport Wharf's new boardwalk and wharf entrance is nearing completion prompting calls for tenancy proposals for the wharf's hospitality spaces.

"Auckland Transport is committed to launching Devonport Wharf into a new retail and hospitality hotspot which reflects the area and becomes a destination in its own right," says Chris Beasleigh, national director of retail sales and leasing at JLL Auckland.

Beasleigh and Chloe Brooks, retail sales and leasing specialist at JLL Devonport, are requesting tenancy proposals for receipt by Monday June 15.

Chloe Brooks of JLL.

"As part of a continuing strategy to transform Devonport's waterfront, the north end of the wharf will feature a modern boardwalk and refurbished wharf entrance that will extend from the main street to 'interface' with existing retail operators," Beasliegh says.

"This is an extremely busy commuter and tourist location and the call for tenancy proposals represents a rare opportunity for food and beverage tenants to tap into an exceptional waterfront destination and capitalise on its high foot traffic," he says.

The revitalised wharf project has been designed by Jasmax on behalf of Auckland Transport with the goals of improving the Devonport urban environment, stimulating visits to Devonport Wharf and "supporting Devonport as an already vibrant seaside retail centre".

Devonport is regular 10 minute ferry ride from Auckland's CBD and also services some ferries travelling to and from Waiheke Island.

Feeder buses to Devonport suburbs, Takapuna and other parts of the North Shore leave from the terminal which has good car parking.

Brooks says Stage One of the overall revamp of Devonport Wharf will provide 200 sq m of prime hospitality space.

Artist's street level impression of the remodelled Devonport Wharf.

"The spaces on offer have fully glazed facades that face north-east out onto the new boardwalk and will open onto the wharf's internal walkway giving the future tenants dual frontage. We are offering flexible options with the ability to cater for one larger tenant or up to three smaller tenants. There is also an additional 65 sq m of external space available which is ideal for ancillary outdoor seating."

Beasleigh says the newly developed space will soon be available for occupancy and will add a huge amount to the amenity value of the precinct.

"The ferry terminal supports a high income demographic with roughly two million people passing through it every year comprising both daily commuters and tourists. For the right operator, the tenancy proposals present an excellent opportunity to offer local passengers funky and convenient retail outlets that will be patronised as part of their daily routine.

Chris Beasleigh of JLL.

"Devonport Wharf draws inspiration from the retail component of transport wharfs globally like Sydney's Manly Wharf. JLL is targeting food and beverage providers as tenants that will enhance the attractiveness of the area and draw people to it.

"We see the development as incorporating the special character of Devonport and improving the daily commute for North Shore residents. We believe this Stage One will set the scene for future stages that will follow in due course," Beasleigh says.