a result. With the introduction of nationwide Saturday trading in 1980, and then seven-day trading in 1990, retail activity declined significantly. The 2011 Christchurch earthquake compounded New Brighton's struggle for economic wellbeing creating vacant derelict sites in its main retail centre. As part of the New Brighton Regeneration Project, the Beachside Playground has been upgraded and He Puna Taimoana saltwater hot pools built. Housing projects are planned by a range of developers including Williams Corporation who sold 37 townhouses situated in 180 Marine Parade within 24 hours in March 2022 and The Home Foundation who are building over 60 terraced homes in a development called Te Pakau Maru on Beresford Street. Paradigm Group are planning a mix of ground floor retail with 16 upstairs apartments at the vacant site of 101 Brighton Mall. Landmarks New Brighton Pier On 18 January 1894, the first New Brighton pier was opened by the Governor of New Zealand, the Earl of Glasgow. In his opening speech, the Earl said:The long timber structure took three years to build and its opening was a significant achievement in promoting New Brighton as a health and recreational resort. Some commentators believe that this potential of New Brighton as a recreational and health resort similar to English New Brighton has not been realised, possibly because of its prevalent harsh winds, poor soils and the somewhat shabby image of the suburb. The pier stood until 1965 when it was demolished as the run down structure wasn't deemed safe by the City Council. A new long concrete pier was constructed and opened on 1 November 1997. In 1999, a library and cafe building was erected at the pier's base. The building received awards from New Zealand Institute of Architects. The pier was closed for earthquake repairs in 2016 and reopened again in May 2018. It has become one of the icons of Christchurch. Education New Brighton contains two high schools, situated side by side being Shirley Boys' High School and Avonside Girls' High School and three primary schools: New Brighton Catholic School: a state-integrated full primary school for years 1 to 8, established in 1935. Nova Montessori School: a private full primary school for years 1 to 8, established in 1988. Rāwhiti School: a state full primary school for years 1 to 8, opened in January 2015 as the result of a merger of Central New Brighton, Freeville, and North New