Hamilton's Centre Place shopping centre will undergo a $40 million revitalisation by Kiwi Income Property Trust.
Investors see the need for the revamp because shoppers are now going to Te Awa, The Base.
The plan starts with a new Rebel Sport superstore opening this Wednesday and Farmers department store will take its place in their old shop, expanding to 7000 sq m.
Kiwi said the Rebel move was a milestone at Centre Place and Farmers was on target to open in October next year.
Ward St West will close, allowing Centre Place owner Kiwi Income Property trust to create a "vibrant" new open space in the heart of the city.
