The Tannery

The Tannery has become an institution in Christchurch’s retail and hospitality scene, and it keeps proving that it’s well worth the 10-minute drive from the CBD to the ‘burbs of Woolston. With its beautifully restored architecture, a mix of independent boutiques and eateries, and the added bonus of free parking, it’s easy to see why this spot is a favourite for locals and visitors alike.

What sets The Tannery apart from your standard shopping centre is who’s behind the counters. These are local businesses with high-quality products and real expertise, so a visit feels less like running errands and more like a genuine day out. There’s something for everyone, too.

Start in the Atrium, where gifting and homewares are covered by HAPA, Long Way Home, Marmaduke Shoppe and Cosi Fan Tutte, and fashion lovers can browse Uncommon, EnCompass and Recycle Boutique. Mrs Bottomley’s fills the hall with flowers, Smith’s Bookshop is a treasure trove for readers, and The Apothecary and My Nails take care of a little self-care. When it’s time to refuel, Bon Bon, Nori Table and Mitchelli’s Café have you sorted. Just outside the Atrium, Fresca Mediterranean is the go-to for all things Mediterranean: food, cooking and wine.

The shopping doesn’t stop at the Atrium, either. Wander out to The Boardwalk, where Bellbird Bakery is worth the trip on its own, Fabric House and Bolt of Cloth are a dream for makers, and Matthews Eyecare can help with your next pair of frames. Bars and a cinema round out this very full package.

Developed by the Cassels family, The Tannery is a fine example of how suburban shopping should be done. It’s boutique, well thought out, and a remarkable restoration of what could otherwise have been a forgettable industrial building. The immaculate attention to detail, beautiful fixtures and fittings, and a nod to the past give it a welcome air of grandeur and sophistication. There’s nothing else quite like it in Christchurch and quite possibly, New Zealand.