The Warehouse has confirmed that it will not be reopening its Wainuiomata store, which closed as a result of earthquake related effects. The store was due to close in early 2017 at the end of its lease, which was was announced earlier in the year.

“Based on the store’s current state, the wellbeing of our team members and the limited timeframe before the store’s lease-end, we’ve taken the decision not to reopen for what would only be a period of a few weeks, said The Warehouse CEO Simon Turner.

“We acknowledge that the decision will be disappointing for local customers wanting to get their Christmas shopping done but the wellbeing of our team is paramount and we believe it is unfair for them to return to a store which has been impacted by an earthquake, only to leave again in a few weeks' time.”

Because the closure has come earlier than expected Wainuiomata locals will be offered subsidised bus fares so they can shop in the nearby Petone or other local The Warehouse stores. Wainuiomata addresses will also be able to access free standard online delivery for a period of around six months. More detail will be confirmed with the local community in the coming weeks.

“The Warehouse enjoys a close relationship with the Wainuiomata community and will continue to support local charity partners. We are contacting the various groups to let them know we will continue to work with them.”

Since the earthquake Wainuiomata team members have been working at the Petone and surrounding Wellington stores.

Unfortunately, the nearby Lower Hutt store is also currently closed due to the earthquake and the demolition of a building at Queensgate Shopping Centre, where the store is located.

To help customers with shopping, opening hours have been extended at Petone since Friday 25 November and will also be extended at Upper Hutt and Porirua from Wednesday 30 November, with stores closing at midnight.

Frequently asked questions

What happens to my layby at Wainuiomata?

We will be contacting all customers who have laybys at Wainuiomata to have them transferred to another store. Customers in this situation should expect to hear from us by 4 December 2016.

How do I access the bus option?

A bus from Wainuiomata to Petone will begin from December 1st, up to and including Boxing Day. We are currently looking at how we can subsidise bus journeys to and from our stores and Wainuiomata homes. We will let the local community know once there is a finalised option for subsidies.

How do I know if I am entitled to free online delivery?

If you have a Wainuiomata address you will be entitled to free online delivery, for standard sized items. We are working out the best way for this to occur and will be able to confirm more information with the local community once this is finalised.