How Empty Shops in Ōamaru Became a Thriving Town Centre

Four years ago, artist Beth Strickland moved to Ōamaru, New Zealand and found a town centre that felt dead. Rows of empty shops lined the streets, abandoned after Covid-19 pushed shoppers online and left the area feeling unsafe.

By 2024, the local council knew something had to change. They launched Revitalise Our Places Ōamaru, a program that opened vacant buildings to pop-up shops at low rent, especially creative businesses.

Strickland coordinated the project, filling empty storefronts with art exhibitions, workshops, and temporary tenants. The goal was simple: bring people back to the streets so they'd visit other shops, grab coffee, and spend time downtown.

"Because towns can die, their CBDs can die," Strickland said. She wasn't about to let that happen.

Upholsterer Angela Gudex was running a part-time business from her garage when she saw the program as her chance. She opened Revamp & Revive on Thames Street, the main drag, selling refurbished second-hand goods and offering sewing alterations.

The feedback was overwhelmingly positive. Gudex has since become a permanent tenant and hired a full-time employee because business is so strong.

She credits the increased foot traffic partly to the program and partly to other businesses like BedsRus filling vacant spaces in what locals called "a bad block." Every new shop makes the whole town feel more alive, Gudex said.

The Ripple Effect

The transformation went beyond just filling storefronts. Existing businesses started tidying up their shop fronts, inspired by the renewed energy around them.

Sandra Familton, an employment consultant who's lived in Ōamaru for 50 years, said jobs are opening up again too. The town that took a hit after Covid-19 now has "a more positive vibe."

Strickland believes the streets look "cleaner, lighter and brighter" now. Locals who once avoided downtown are coming back to see what's new.

The town still has some empty shops, but the momentum is building. Strickland sees enormous potential in Ōamaru's historic architecture and creative community.

She thinks other small towns facing similar struggles could learn from this approach. As more people move from cities to rural areas seeking affordable living, these communities need to become magnets that maintain their uniqueness while offering real opportunities.

The council hasn't committed to continuing the program yet due to budget constraints, but positive feedback means they're keeping the door open for future revival.