Plans have been revealed for a 60-80 seat business hub, incubator and growth accelerator facility in the heart of the Rotorua CBD.
Innovation House is the brainchild of Firestation co-founders Darren and Rachael McGarvie, who currently operate a smaller entrepreneurial hub and co-working space on Haupapa St.
Ms McGarvie said Innovation House would be a first for the Bay of Plenty. It would have a blend of open plan co-working space, serviced offices, meeting rooms, and event amenities, providing 60-to-80 seats, with a central "meet street" with lounge, bar and barista/cafe. The design will incorporate a Wood First approach in its fit-out.
Firestation had already received in principle expressions of interest from 50 potential tenants from a range of corporates, professional services firms and local businesses, she said.
The McGarvies have identified a 900sq m, one storey building in the CBD, which they are trying to secure, initially under a five-year lease. Ms McGarvie said she was unable to disclose the property, as it was still early days in the discussions. However, the aim was to retrofit an existing building.