It's time to talk shop in Greenhithe

Instead of driving up to 12km just to buy groceries, locals will soon be able to stroll, reports Rebecca Lewis
When Margaret Hill needs to go shopping from her Greenhithe home, it takes a bit of planning.
``I've got to hop in the car and decide where to go - it's either Westgate or Albany,' she says.
``There's a few little market places around here but for a substantial grocery or pharmacy shop you've got to head out of Greenhithe, which can be annoying at times.'
But Greenhithe shoppers like Mrs Hill won't have to put up with the 10km commute to Westgate or 12km to Albany for much longer.
A new boutique shopping development centre has been given the green light for Greenhithe Rd, with building starting immediately.
The 1000sq m centre - which will be like a large superette including a pharmacy, liquor store, cafe and a post office - is due to open around March next year.
``I think it's just a fantastic idea and I don't know why it wasn't done sooner,' says Mrs Hill. ``Obviously this area is getting increasingly busier and more people are realising that living out this way is a great lifestyle choice.
``The surrounding amenities need to match the growth of the population, and a little shopping centre is just what we need.'
The development - to be called the Greenhithe Village Centre - is being built by Argyle Estates Ltd ,a well-established Auckland property company responsible for founding the Dress-Smart retail chain.
Matthew Chaytor, development consultant for the company, says a superette in Greenhithe will help local residents and existing dairy owners expand their own businesses.
``At the moment, the only option people have for basic shopping is jumping in their cars, so this will effectively help them use less petrol and save the hassle,' he says.
``We want to provide a service to the people of Greenhithe.'
The development has the backing of the Greenhithe Residents, Ratepayers and Community Hall Associa tion, too.
Local businessman Greg Innes is delighted it is going ahead. His father, Craig Innes, developed the existing Greenhithe Garage site 30 years ago.
``My father contributed to the development of Greenhithe by building the garage in 1978,' says Mr Innes.
``The village has grown considerably since then and it's time to take it to the next stage by improving residnts' access to amenities.
``As far as I'm concerned, the sooner it happens the better.'