The Canterbury Employers' Chamber of Commerce says the decision to set up the country's second pop up container mall in Rangiora is essential for the survival of the local economy.
Waimakariri District Council plans to spend up to $500,000 on the container mall to help displaced businesses in Rangiora.
The town, north of Christchurch, has been hit by the closure of a dozen businesses deemed earthquake-prone after recent structural assessments.
Chief executive of the Chamber of Commerce Peter Townsend says the closures, which have also been happening in Christchurch over the past few months, are a major problem and the initiative is just what the town needs.
Council chief executive Jim Palmer says the temporary shops will be situated on the front lawn of the council's Rangiora office, and in surrounding streets.
Mr Palmer says that instead of using shipping containers like those in Christchurch's Re:START pop-up mall, a garage-building company will create the accommodation with similar dimensions and large display windows.
He says the shops could be there for up to three years, and about five businesses have already expressed interest.
