More than a decade on from the earthquakes, the Christchurch CBD is settling into a recognisable rhythm. Tūranga library, Te Pae convention centre and the Riverside Market now anchor a network of laneways that locals say feel busier than at any point since 2011.

Council figures show foot traffic on Cashel Street and along the Terrace has held steady through autumn, with hospitality operators reporting their strongest mid-week trade in three years. New tenancies on Victoria and High Street have been signed by a mix of independent retailers and national brands.

Development still under way includes the Court Theatre's Gloucester Street home, due to open later this year, and the One Central residential blocks east of Madras Street. Both projects are expected to add several hundred residents and workers to the immediate central city.

Mayor Phil Mauger has previously framed the next phase of the rebuild as one of "filling in the gaps" rather than large-scale anchor projects. Business owners spoken to by the Bulletin echoed that view, pointing to small-format developments and laneway activations as the most visible drivers of change.

Residents wanting to follow what is planned can track active consents through the Christchurch City Council website. The Bulletin will continue to report on major openings and infrastructure milestones across the central city through the year.