Rolleston and the Selwyn District are set to welcome the South Island’s largest new supermarket, with PAK’nSAVE Rolleston now in the final stages of construction ahead of its opening in October.  

With 8,100 square metres of retail space and a $40+ million investment behind it, the new store will create around 250 new jobs, a major boost for Selwyn, New Zealand’s fastest-growing region. 

Foodstuffs South Island Chief Executive, Mary Devine said the co-op is proud to be investing long-term in a community with a big future. 

“PAK’nSAVE Rolleston isn’t just about delivering New Zealand’s lowest food prices - it’s built to support the region’s growth, resilience, and readiness for whatever the future holds,” she said. “This is a store designed to stand strong and serve the community.” 

The store has been designed to IL3 (Importance Level 3) standards, the same engineering benchmark used for facilities like emergency services, meaning it can operate during and after major seismic events. It features: 

Stricter seismic design and foundation requirements 

Rooftop solar and back-up generator capability 

Increased storage for emergency response support 

Enhanced building materials and resilience systems 

PAK’nSAVE Rolleston’s resilience will allow it to serve as a local distribution hub during emergencies, adding significant value to the region’s readiness and response capacity. 

PAK’nSAVE Rolleston will also include: 

485 carparks 

8 team member-operated checkouts 

18 self-service checkouts 

60 hand-held scanners for SHOP’nGO 

A dedicated Click & Collect area 

Energy saving tech including solar panels, EV chargers, natural refrigerants, LED lighting, and energy management systems 

“This is a modern, sustainable store designed to grow with Selwyn and serve generations to come,” said Devine. “From the materials we’ve chosen to the energy systems we’ve put in place, every aspect of PAK’nSAVE Rolleston has been designed to meet the needs of a growing community - not just today, but well into the future. It’s a long-term investment in people, place, and resilience.”  

The store will be owned and operated by Phill and Sarah Blackburn, experienced grocers with a reputation for putting community first.  

“Every dollar we save our shoppers is a dollar they can spend on their family,” said Phill Blackburn. “That’s what drives us - keeping prices as low as possible so that everyday families can get more out of their weekly shop.  

“At the same time, we’re committed to being more than just a supermarket. We want to create real opportunities for locals to build meaningful careers, whether that’s through their first job, upskilling, or taking on leadership roles. This store is about people, both in how we serve the community and how we grow our team.”  

The Blackburns have over 24 years of grocery experience under their belts, having previously owned and operated PAK’nSAVE Riccarton, New World Ilam, New World Balclutha and Store Manager at New World Wanaka.  

The husband-and-wife team are preparing to engage with local schools and the Ministry of Social Development to create a safe, supportive workplace and ensure employment opportunities are accessible to all. 

Sarah Blackburn said: “If you’re looking for progression, that’s what we’re about, or if you need a steady role and a soft place to land, there’s going to be a place in the waka for everyone.” 

PAK’nSAVE Rolleston is set to open on 14 October 2025.