Auckland foodies can look forward to a new multi-million-dollar food precinct opening this year with Kiwi Property announcing a $9.1 million expansion of the dining lane at Sylvia Park shopping centre which attracts 12.6 million visitors annually to shop and eat.
Opening in December, “The Grove” at Sylvia Park will provide a contemporary alfresco dining experience including six new restaurants, a new town square, landscaping and a signature dining pavilion.
“The Grove is the next step in Kiwi Property’s long-term vision to create a world-class town centre at Sylvia Park. It is designed to integrate seamlessly with an upgrade and refresh of the existing dining area, as well as the delivery of our new 10-level office tower, which is currently under construction, and will set a new standard for suburban dining in Auckland,” says Kiwi Property Chief Executive, Chris Gudgeon.
“We will be offering high-quality, modern cuisine and we’re excited to announce we are working with Britomart Hospitality Group in its first foray into shopping centres, bringing Mexico and Better Burger to Sylvia Park.”
Barworks, owners of Garrisons at Sylvia Park, is also reaffirming its confidence in the centre with the opening of a new offer in what they say will be a stylish pavilion building.
“We are also in talks with a number of other leading New Zealand food operators who are excited about showcasing their latest dining concepts at “The Grove”. Kiwi Property set a precedent in shopping centre dining with “The Brickworks” at LynnMall and we will now take things to the next level with The Grove at Sylvia Park,” says Mr Gudgeon.
The design of The Grove will reflect the original country pedigree of the location, with open spaces, planting and an iconic, light, airy pavilion that will deliver an exciting new-look entrance for the shopping centre.
Kiwi Property is commissioning a significant piece of artwork for the public space, which will sit alongside bespoke furniture and beautiful landscaping. There will also be a retractable canopy over the dining lane, so visitors will be able to enjoy the space all year round.
Karl Retief, General Manager – Retail at Kiwi Property, said: “The Sylvia Park dining lane upgrade reflects current consumer trends, with customers increasingly wanting inclusive and immersive dining experiences that not only entertain but also provide social meeting places.”
“Unlike other major cities, Auckland lacks strong dining and entertainment precincts outside of the city so “The Grove” at Sylvia Park is set to lead the way. In addition to a great dining expansion, our plans showcase a world-class public space where the community will be able to go to relax, unwind after a busy day or be entertained with family and friends. Over many years we have increased our focus on creating exceptional social experiences at our centres and this is evident at Sylvia Park in our great Hoyts cinema offer, Lilliput mini golf and now an all-weather dining experience,” said Mr Retief.
