Auckland's Queens Arcade will undergo a transformation following the announcement of a multi-million dollar investment.
One of Auckland’s most established commercial families is making a fresh, multi-million-dollar investment into the city centre, committing more than NZD 5 million to reposition the historic Queens Arcade as a luxury retail and wellness destination.
The Davis family has owned the building since it first opened in 1929 and will transform the two-level precinct into a boutique-scale arcade designed for premium, service-led operators and appointment-based shopping experiences - drawing inspiration from the iconic arcades of Melbourne, Paris and Milan.
The investment adds momentum to the growing premium push in lower Queen Street, alongside neighbours including the recently announced Cartier and Faradays, and existing Prada and Gucci.
Construction will begin on 1 April 2026, with the refurbishment scheduled for completion by November 2026. A major New Zealand-owned luxury retailer has already been secured as an anchor tenant, with further announcements to be made at a later date.
The Davis family has a long-standing legacy of hands-on property stewardship, heritage preservation and civic contribution in Auckland. This includes the Mission Bay memorial fountain - commissioned by Eliot Davis in memory of his son Trevor, and significant support from his older brother Sir Ernest Davis that saw Browns Island pass into public ownership and enabled major improvements to the Tiritiri Matangi Lighthouse in the Hauraki Gulf.
Michael Holden, of the Davis family, said the Queens Arcade investment reflects a long-held belief in backing Auckland for the long term.
“Our family has been part of Auckland for well over a century, and we’ve always believed the city’s success depends on people being willing to invest for the long term,” said Holden, speaking on behalf of the family.”
“Queens Arcade is a legacy building. This investment is about lifting standards, respecting its history, and ensuring it continues to play a meaningful role in Auckland’s prosperity well into the future.”
The multimillion-dollar refurbishment will reposition Queens Arcade as a highly curated luxury destination, with a deliberately limited number of small to mid-sized tenancies designed for flagship, showcase and appointment-based operators rather than high-volume retail.
The ground floor will be dedicated to premium retail, while Level 1 is intended to evolve into a complementary health and wellbeing hub, further differentiating the arcade from big box shopping centres.
The remaining tenancy mix will suit boutique-style high-end retail looking for showcase shopfronts to present product to both Kiwi customers and travellers, in a setting built around service, presentation and experience.
“We’re not trying to be everything to everyone,” said Holden.
“This is about quality over quantity. We’re looking for well-capitalised, well-run businesses that care about brand, service and presentation - operators who see Queens Arcade as a flagship home, not a short-term lease.”
Heart of the City chief executive Viv Beck said the Queens Arcade redevelopment is the kind of private investment that lifts the city centre at exactly the right time, as major public infrastructure nears completion.
“This is a real vote of confidence in lower Queen Street as a luxury precinct,” said Beck.
“Heritage is what gives the city its character and investment like this has flow-on effects. It attracts more people, gives reason to stay longer and encourages other businesses that complement the offer.”
More news here.
