Downtown: The $130 Million Precinct Set to Transform Christchurch’s City Centre

The next stage in Christchurch’s evolution

Christchurch’s central city is entering a bold new chapter. At the heart of this transformation is the newly announced Downtown precinct by Peebles Group, a cutting-edge, mixed-use complex that’s set to reshape how people live, work and connect in the city.

Located across a full block bounded by Manchester, Cashel and Lichfield Streets, the project will see 20 new buildings rise in one of the largest single developments since the earthquakes.

As reported by The Press, the $130 million development is already being described as “a bloody exciting project,” a reflection of the confidence and optimism behind Christchurch’s continued rebuild (The Press). Metropol also hailed it as “a development that will redefine the heart of the city.” (Metropol)

Building a livable, vibrant CBD

Peebles Group’s track record in shaping Christchurch’s post-quake revival speaks for itself. Their portfolio includes some of the city’s most recognisable destinations, from the buzzing Little High Eatery and the award-winning Riverside Market, to The Woolstore redevelopment and The Guthrey Centre, as well as their striking three storey corner project at High Street, Colombo and Hereford. Each has played a part in bringing people, energy and life back into the heart of the city.

Now, the Downtown precinct builds on that same momentum, an evolution of their vision for a vibrant, livable CBD where people not only work and shop, but truly live.

“This development represents a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to create a thriving precinct,” says Peebles. “By combining living, working and leisure in one central, connected location, it’s not just about buildings, it’s about community.” (Metropol)

Designed for people, not just progress

The precinct is set to include apartments, retail, hospitality and landscaped public spaces connected by pedestrian-friendly laneways. This approach prioritises people over cars, fostering a city environment that feels alive both day and night. As one commentator put it, “People want to live in cities that are easy to navigate, where everything is close by, and where there’s life at street level. That’s exactly what we’re creating here.”

Setting the stage for the future

Construction is expected to begin in 2026, with completion projected for late 2027. With a trusted developer, a central location and a clear vision anchored in livability, this development represents the next major leap in Christchurch’s urban evolution.

In short, the Downtown precinct is more than just another development, it’s the blueprint for a new kind of city centre: one built around people, community and connection.