Passion and trust
Female-led businesses are thriving at Merivale Mall.
Merivale Mall is home to several female-led and owned businesses, each bringing a unique touch to Christchurch’s boutique retail landscape. From luxury nail treatments to high-end jewellery and footwear, these women have built thriving businesses based on quality, service, and passion.
Kim Gordon, owner of Bhava Nails, wears many hats. With a background in publishing, graphic design, and property development, she has built a brand that delivers a high level of service. Designing a fit-out that blended seamlessly with Merivale Mall’s aesthetic was a particularly exciting part of creating the Bhava brand.
Opening at the end of 2020, Bhava Nails was born from a shared vision between Kim and a friend to offer a next-level nail experience in the community. “Bhava is a space of sanctuary with a calm and relaxed atmosphere in which to indulge in the most hygienic of surroundings,” Kim explains. The salon offers expert nail treatments using only the highest-quality modern products and ingredients – all with a touch of luxury. “We appreciate that sometimes it’s the only downtime our clients get during their busy day.”
As a businesswoman and a mother of 14-year-old twin girls, Kim values the opportunity to set an example. “They get to see the ‘behind the scenes’ of running a business – the risks, the commitment, but also the fulfilment and pride.”
Penny Wilson, owner of DKNZ and the DYRBERG/KERN concept stores in Wellington and Christchurch, has a deep-rooted passion for retail. When the opportunity to buy the business arose around six years ago, she knew it was the right fit. “I’m a good salesperson, but I can’t sell brands that I don’t believe in or trust,” she says. “DYRBERG/KERN was that for me – quality and trustworthy.”
Penny prides herself on offering an old-fashioned customer experience. “Our philosophy is to offer a personal experience and to be attentive to the customer – how they deserve to be treated.” Beyond service, she values the integrity of her products. “We’re not contributing to a throwaway society; it’s timeless quality.”
Despite challenges in retail over the past few years, Penny credits Merivale Mall and Christchurch’s growth for DKNZ’s success. “We’re really grateful to our loyal customers and to the city as a whole. Christchurch has come a long way, and Merivale offers a unique retail experience.”
Jo and Julie, co-owners of shoe boutique Moda Bella, have been surrounded by shoes their whole lives. Their father ran a shoe factory and retail business in Christchurch, and Moda Bella is a continuation of that proud legacy.
Jo, a former podiatrist, and Julie, who worked in both the fashion industry and for an airline, take a hands-on approach to their business. “We don’t just hide out the back, though we will be putting stock away sometimes,” Jo laughs. “We help on the floor and support our staff. Some have been with us as long as we have.”
This direct involvement helps them stay connected to customers. “Trust is important,” Julie adds. “We’re never going to sell a woman something she doesn’t want.” As one of the few independent shoe shops left in New Zealand, they value their unique boutique appeal. “Merivale Mall matches that perfectly.”