Construction at the 6000sq m site between Ribble and Dee Sts has been under way for several months — with the exception of a weeks-long stoppage in August after archaeological remains were found during excavation work — and is on track to open this year.
Waitaki Mayor Gary Kircher said the fact more than two dozen new jobs had been created in the district was positive for the town, and would help boost the district’s economy.
"It’s certainly one of the positives that when they were building the bigger site that they would be expecting to need more staff, both because they are busier and there’s more areas to cover," he said.
"It’s very positive news ... it’s definitely a positive sign of the faith they have got in our local economy."
The company is inviting expressions of interest for 25 full-time and part-time positions across several departments, and also people to assist with the setting-up of the store in the lead up to its opening.
As far as construction is concerned, the majority of the complex is now under cover and splashes of the company’s distinctive orange can be seen on the Ribble St side of the building site.
Since August’s discovery, when Heritage New Zealand was called in after the remains of a pre-1900 dwelling and the former North Otago Brewery were uncovered, no further items of archaeological significance have been found.
A Mitre 10 New Zealand Ltd spokeswoman said a Heritage New Zealand staff member remained "semi-on-call in an observation role", but would return if further excavation work took place, which was possible for aspects such as drainage.
Meanwhile, the building occupied by Mitre 10 Oamaru at present, in Cross St, is advertised as being for lease.
