As part of its new Metro retail strategy, Auckland Transport (AT) has leased out the newly refurbished Northern Pavilion of Devonport Wharf.
Auckland restauranteurs Alex Isik and Nigar Ivgen will transform the area into a new restaurant-bar-café concept called Devon on the Wharf.
Alex Isik says, “Nigar and I began our journey into hospitality when we acquired Zigana Espresso in Devonport years ago. Devon on the Wharf is going to be a great place to enjoy, with several transformations during the day, catering to working professionals, locals, visitors and families.”
Devon on the Wharf will be the newest addition to the duo's culinary chain which includes the popular Deco Eatery in Titirangi and Bodrum Kitchen in New Lynn.
First part of AT's retail strategy
General Manager AT Metro Mark Lambert says the space at Devonport is the first part of Auckland Transport’s retail strategy for public transport facilities.
“One of the key objectives of the strategy is to enhance the experience for our customers using public transport (Metro) facilities and to attract current non-public transport users to Metro facilities.
"This is part of the improvements across public transport to ultimately support and build on the momentum of the recent record growth in public transport use in Auckland. This restaurant will help build Devonport Wharf as a centre of activity to the benefit of locals, visitors and commuters alike.”
Revitalisation welcomed
North Shore Councillor Chris Darby says, “The revitalisation of Devonport Wharf has been a long time coming. Confirmation that our hard work is paying off with a new tenant, new boardwalk and a revitalised doorway to Devonport caps off a long innings for me.
"Our wharf will no longer be a dull point of transportation transfer, but a brilliant and lively anchor which reinforces Devonport as a top destination from the moment you step off the ferry."
The letting agreement follows a substantial refurbishment of the north end and surrounding public areas of Devonport Wharf by Auckland Transport. Improvements include the upgrade of Marine Square and a new boardwalk and central entrance which will further enhance connectivity between the wharf and Devonport village.
Fit-out works will commence next month and the restaurant is due to open in July.
