Focus on Food at 1 Roulston Street

The Kitchen Project will undertake the day-to-day management of the building to encourage new regular events and innovative uses, with a focus on promoting the food mahi of Pukekohe and Franklin.

“This space has always been seen as an opportunity to catalyse a market and food destination and really celebrate Franklin’s importance as one of New Zealand’s major food producer regions. We are looking forward to shining a light on the list of exceptional growers and hospitality providers that form the backbone of Pukekohe’s manakitanga.” said Connie Clarkson, Kitchen Project Manager.

With an emphasis on culture, healthy food, sustainable business practices and building community wealth, the Kitchen Project helps Auckland’s budding food and beverage entrepreneurs take their ideas or business to the next level.  It has launched more than 50 new food-related businesses across Auckland, offering practical advice on everything from regulations, food safety, finance and fund sourcing, supply chain, quality, and marketing.  It also offers use of commercial kitchen facilities for its entrepreneurs at various locations.

“As well as run our next 20-week southern intake from 1 Roulston Street, we are working with Eke Panuku, the Franklin Local Board and the Pukekohe Business Association to ensure this space is well used, whether to support the weekly Franklin Farmers market and other events, run workshops, or encourage other food-based and community initiatives.”

There are also plans to revisit the successful Kai Franklin initiative to promote local growers.  The original week-long event focused on promoting the diverse range of products from across the district with chef and media events, a cooking school and gala dinner event.

“Now that we have access to this wonderful space, we are bringing Kai Franklin home. We are working through ideas for Kai Franklin 2.0 which will have a real community focus and the ability to involve more local businesses.

“We are hoping that seeing 1 Roulston Street come to life will inspire potential developers to see its potential to invigorate the town centre given its prime location adjacent to the town square and main street,” Clarkson said.

The wider development site, known as the Edinburgh Superblock, is now on the market. Following extensive community, business and stakeholder consultation, the regeneration of this site is guided by the Pukekohe Masterplan.  Endorsed by the Franklin Local Board last year, it allows a carefully thought-out urban regeneration programme to get underway. The successful development partner will be required to commit to essential outcomes for the site including shops and restaurants to provide jobs and business opportunities for locals, accommodation options and a pedestrian laneway to make it safe and easy for people to move around.