Abstract
This research investigates the regeneration of Invercargill’s CBD by examining the processes leading to its recent regeneration, their impacts, and potential lessons for other small urban centres. Small urban centres across the world face numerous challenges in terms of their capacity to respond to economic and social change. A major risk is the gradual physical, economic, and aesthetic decline of their CBDs. These areas are critical for town identity and pride, and they significantly influence how a place presents itself to the wider world, potential new investors, and residents. A mixed-methods approach was undertaken as part of this research, gathering information from key informant interviews and surveys of residents, visitors and businesses. Secondary data collection included a review of relevant literature, council documents, and media. Invercargill, like many smaller urban centres has faced a range of challenges which have contributed to the physical, economic, social and cultural decline of its CBD. The CBD had lost its heart, becoming characterised by numerous vacant and decaying buildings, low foot traffic and a car centric environment.
The need for regeneration had been recognised for an extended period, with some smaller scale regeneration attempts being undertaken in the early years of the present century. However, in recent years, Invercargill’s CBD has been transformed. The regeneration projects include the redevelopment of an entire inner-city block into a multi-use retail, hospitality, and office space, along with a high-end hotel featuring bars and restaurants as well as a state-of-the-art creative centre. This has been accompanied by renewed pedestrian-oriented streetscapes. Additionally, the CBD has been brought to life through public events and artworks. Results suggest that the collaboration between public and private sectors has been a key driver of this regeneration alongside the involvement of other core local organisations. One of the keys to Invercargill’s success was that of the main stakeholders all working towards regenerating the CBD for the community's benefit. These regeneration efforts have significantly improved Invercargill’s economic, environmental, social, and cultural wellbeing. Overall, these changes have enhanced the quality of life, made Invercargill a more appealing place to live, and positively transformed its public image and potentially shed light on what other small urban centres might consider pursuing.