UDB traditionally works reactively with potential sites - project comes in, we find a site. Turning things around, we are excited to be in the position to currently offer a small number of unique sites available for short-term activation. These spaces are now able to be proactively programmed, allowing us to work with artists and creative practitioners to develop ideas in response to these sites.

Each site has its own character, constraints and possibilities. We encourage proposals that respond to the nature of the space itself — whether that is installation, exhibition, moving image, sound, performance or public-facing creative use.

We don’t always have a lot of time to utlilise these spaces, so you will need to relatively nimble… If one of these sites sparks an idea, we’d love to hear from you! Email direct to kiaora@urbandreambrokerage.org.nz OR contact through our portal linked here.

vacant commercial sites - do you have a vacant space?

Urban Dream Brokerage (UDB) works with property owners, local government and creative practitioners to enable the temporary use of vacant commercial spaces. We act as an intermediary, managing relationships, processes and risk so that underutilised buildings can be activated in low-impact, short-term ways that support both property and city outcomes.

We help reduce the social, economic and reputational impacts of prolonged vacancy by coordinating curated, time-bound activations that increase street-level activity and public presence. UDB manages due diligence, stakeholder coordination and delivery, allowing property owners to participate in interim use without taking on additional operational or compliance burden.

Since 2013, UDB has supported over 150 projects across Wellington, developing a proven model for temporary activation that complements longer-term leasing, redevelopment and planning processes. Our work provides a flexible, low-risk way for vacant space to contribute positively to the city while remaining ready for its next commercial use.

How Does it Benefit The Property?

If you have a vacant commercial space, we can help you activate it in a way that is low-risk, professionally managed and aligned with your longer-term plans.

Working with UDB can:

• Reduce the negative impacts of vacancy — discourage vandalism, tagging and deterioration through regular presence and passive surveillance.

• Increase street-level activity — bring foot traffic, visibility and positive public engagement to your frontage.

• Protect your asset’s reputation — ensure your building contributes positively to the surrounding precinct rather than appearing neglected.

• Support future leasing — activated spaces often generate interest and demonstrate potential to prospective tenants.

• Require minimal input from you — UDB manages curation, coordination, compliance conversations and day-to-day liaison.

• Remain flexible — all activations are temporary and structured to accommodate redevelopment or commercial leasing when required.

Urban Dream Brokerage is one of many agencies around the world who have proven the power for urban revitalisation through brokering the temporary use of space.

MEDIA STORY from The Post