After an earthquake drained and rose the area in 1855, much of modern Wellington’s central business district was formed. There was more usable land for people, including new land to add a rail and road route, soon turning the area into an industrial hub for the city.
Transformation came again in the early 20th century, with Wellington’s fruit and vegetable market, which began on Allen and Blair Street, moving to the Waterfront and what we know as the Habourside Market. This brought a new energy to the area. People would flock to the Harbourside Market for fresh produce every weekend, bringing more foot traffic to the area.
At the same time, there was rapid growth in the businesses on Courtenay Place, with new cinemas, theatres, coffee spots, restaurants and shops popping up – some of which are still around today. These changes cemented Courtenay Place’s reputation as an entertainment hub.