Modern Glazing in the Heart of Christchurch

Located within central Christchurch, Nectar 1 and Nectar 2 showcase how high performance glazing can shape both architectural identity and the street level experience of a modern retail environment.

Project Overview

Designed by Wilson + Hill Architects and constructed by Cook Brothers Construction, Nectar 1 and Nectar 2 form a prominent retail and commercial development positioned on a high-profile CBD intersection. The project features large-format shopfront glazing and structurally glazed façades designed to maximise transparency, natural light, and connection to the surrounding streetscape.

Metro Performance Glass, working alongside Nebulite Garden City, manufactured and installed the project’s high-performance glazing systems, including butt-jointed façades, structural glass fins, and insulated glazing units across both ground and Level 1 spaces. The glazing plays a defining role in the architectural expression of the development—creating seamless visual continuity and a refined, contemporary retail aesthetic.

Large glazed frontages enhance visibility into retail tenancies while supporting thermal performance and occupant comfort through the use of insulated Low-E glazing systems. The result is a façade that feels open, light, and highly integrated into the revitalised Christchurch CBD.

Unique Project Requirements

Delivering the glazing package required innovative planning and installation methodologies due to the project’s constrained inner-city location. Positioned alongside an active tram line and busy pedestrian areas, the site offered limited external access for handling oversized glass panels and structural elements.

To overcome these challenges, the team developed a staged internal installation strategy using Hi-Ab cranes, wheeled A-frames, and spider cranes to safely manoeuvre and position large-format glazing from within the building itself. Oversized units, structural glass fins, and butt-jointed systems all demanded precise alignment and careful coordination between installation teams, scaffolding crews, and framing systems.

Despite the complexity of the site conditions, both Nectar 1 and Nectar 2 were delivered within compressed programme timeframes while maintaining high standards of quality, safety, and visual consistency. The finished result is a technically sophisticated glazing solution that contributes strongly to the vibrancy and contemporary character of central Christchurch

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