Free workshop for new property developers

The Christchurch City Council is offering Christchurch property owners contemplating becoming first-time developers a free, educational workshop at the Court Theatre on 1 August.

The half-day Foundations 2012 seminar, sponsored by the Bank of New Zealand, is an introduction to commercial property development for investors who, as a result of the earthquakes, may find themselves having to rebuild damaged investment properties without any background in property development. The idea was identified during the development of the Central City Recovery Plan.

The seminar will provide first-time property developers with practical information, including bringing together a project team and ensuring they take a robust risk management approach to property development.

Christchurch Mayor Bob Parker says Christchurch is about to embark on one of the most dynamic periods of development and change in the 160-year history of the city. “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 says it will be the passion and commitment of our future property developers that will drive the rebuild of our 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.”

The tailored programme will cover:

• An introduction to property development
• Feasibility and market analysis
• The project team
• Consenting process
• Risk management
• Building environmental performance
• The planning landscape post-Christchurch Central Development Unit Blueprint

 

To register for the seminar, email Register@ccc.govt.nz by 5pm Monday 30 July.

All participants will receive an introductory reference guide following the seminar.