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The Project

Revitalising Chews Lane – a new community in the city

A new life is beating in the heart of Wellington's CBD.

The redevelopment of historic Chews Lane, which runs between Willis and Victoria Sts, has created an exciting new destination in the city's centre that comprises character and modern office space, apartments, parking, and a great mix of complementary retail, cafes, and bars.

Tucked into the city's urban fabric, the rejuvenated Chews Lane Precinct will create a new boutique neighbourhood at the city's commercial and creative heart.

The pedestrian-only Lane, which links the bustle of the city to the library, the City Gallery and the waterfront, is flanked by an eclectic mix of character buildings. Their refurbishment as quality office and retail space is now underway. The development team's plans for the neighbourhood will see these heritage buildings complemented by a new landmark office building and apartments, designed by award-winning Athfield Architects.

The Lane will be alive with specialist shops, galleries and cafes, which will spill out onto the pavement: a busy urban hub that is a key destination for locals and visitors alike.

Birds eye view of Chews Lane area

Commitment to Excellence: The Development Team

The project team assembled for the Chews Lane development is committed to delivering the best for Wellington. Their appreciation of the historic and civic significance of the Chews Lane Precinct is backed by extensive experience and commitment to a quality product.

ARCHITECTS: Athfield Architects Ltd is an integral part of the fabric of Wellington. From the partnership's unique headquarters, which cascades down a hillside high above the harbour, to the sheer genius of the Wellington City Library, Athfields represent creativity tempered by the production of technically detailed drawings that are second to none.

BUILDING CONTRACTORS: LT McGuinness Limited is a third-generation family firm founded in 1957. It has one of the biggest building teams in Wellington. Staff turnover is low and the focus on quality is high.

PRINCIPAL: Willis Bond & Co Limited is a Wellington-based investment bank that specialises in property and private equity investments. Willis Bond currently has a number of substantial property projects underway in Auckland and Wellington. Recent projects in the capital include the market-leading renovations of Shed 22 into the Wellington Brewing Company and the Odlins building into the NZX Centre; the refurbishment of Shell House on The Terrace for Transpower New Zealand; and the conversion to offices of the Queens Wharf Retail Centre for tenants such as Shell (NZ) Limited and Synergy Limited.