Key Takeaways
- The City Rail Link (CRL) in Auckland CBD is nearing completion, bringing new opportunities for some businesses and relief from years of disruption.
- The CRL is expected to open in the second half of 2026, and businesses are already seeing an increase in foot traffic and customer interest.
- While some businesses are thriving, others are still struggling to recover from the disruption and economic slump caused by the construction.
- Business owners are calling for improved infrastructure, including loading zones and safe pedestrian areas, to support the growth of the area.
Introduction to the City Rail Link
The City Rail Link (CRL) in Auckland CBD has been under construction for nearly six years, causing significant disruption to businesses and residents in the area. However, with the project nearing its completion, businesses are finally starting to see a light at the end of the tunnel. The CRL is expected to open in the second half of 2026, and businesses are already experiencing an increase in foot traffic and customer interest. This is a welcome relief for many businesses that have struggled to stay afloat during the construction period.
Businesses Thriving on Karangahape Rd
On Karangahape Rd, businesses such as Lebanese Grocer and Flying Out Records are reporting an increase in customers and a more positive atmosphere. According to Elie Assaf, owner of Lebanese Grocer, "Foot traffic’s increased. People seem like they actually want to come down and visit K’ Rd now. You just have to give them more reason to." Similarly, Hunter Keane, owner of Flying Out Records, noted that "the mood is much better" and that "everyone’s just really excited for that opening day." These businesses are optimistic about the future and are looking forward to the opportunities that the completed CRL will bring.
Challenges Faced by Downtown Businesses
However, not all businesses are thriving. Downtown, on Wellesley St, businesses such as Karadeniz Café and Roma Blooms are struggling to stay afloat. Karadeniz Café went up for sale recently, and owner Rose Rahmati expressed her concerns about the number of food businesses that have closed in the area. "There’s a lot of food businesses around right now, like lots of them, they closed and it’s like, it’s a loss. It was a year of loss," she said. The future is also uncertain for Roma Blooms, with owner Shobhana Ranchhodji expressing her concerns about the lack of infrastructure to support businesses in the area.
Infrastructure Concerns
Business owners in the area are calling for improved infrastructure to support the growth of the area. Shobhana Ranchhodji, owner of Roma Blooms, highlighted the need for loading zones and safe pedestrian areas. "Having the businesses be able to operate like businesses," she said. "What do we need? We need loading zones. We need safe places for people to walk." These concerns are echoed by other business owners in the area, who are looking for support from the city to help them recover from the disruption caused by the CRL construction.
Conclusion and Future Prospects
In conclusion, the completion of the City Rail Link is a welcome relief for businesses in Auckland CBD. While some businesses are thriving, others are still struggling to recover from the disruption and economic slump caused by the construction. Business owners are calling for improved infrastructure to support the growth of the area, and it is essential that the city listens to their concerns and provides the necessary support. With the CRL expected to open in the second half of 2026, businesses are optimistic about the future and are looking forward to the opportunities that the completed project will bring. As Rose Hope, owner of Crushes, said, "I’m just so happy for the street and all the businesses that have held on because it’s just going to be really special and we deserve it."
