Workshop for first-time developers

The seminar, to be held on August 1 and sponsored by the Bank of New Zealand, is designed to be an introduction to commercial property development, for investors who have to rebuild their investment properties in the wake of the city’s earthquakes.

The idea was identified during the development of the Central City Recovery Plan.

Christchurch Mayor Bob Parker said:  "What is built today will influence the shape, form and future prosperity of our city. The success of the rebuild is dependent on the support and commitment of everyone, from the Council and Government through to the property investment community, developers, designers and businesses. I therefore encourage developers to take advantage of this opportunity.

"The process of developing a building in challenging circumstances requires a specialised skill-set to avoid making costly and time consuming mistakes. It's important that future developers arm themselves with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed."

BNZ Managing Partner Mike Willetts said property developers would drive the rebuild of the city.

“The bank is committed to the rebuild and one of the best ways to support it is to provide the community with the skills they need to get on with the job and make the right decisions."