The Twisted Hop is one of the newest additions to Lichfield Lanes. Christchurch Star picture / Martin Woodhall

What do a micro-brewery, fashion clothing, yoga and tatooists have in common?

They are all components in a unique multi-million dollar redevelopment project transforming an historic Christchurch central city block.

The site known as Lichfield Lanes is bounded by Lichfield, High and Tuam Sts.

Developers Jon webb, Lisle Hood and Paul Bradley are turning what was once a dilapidated collection of old industrial buildings into home for a diverse mix of apartment dwellers and businesses.

The stage-by-stage development has been a work in progress for the past two years, and there is still more to come.

They say they already have around 50 tenants, with businesses ranging from clothing and a tatooist to small office businesses, hospitality outlets and a gentlemen's club.

Webb sees the wide range of businesses and tenants is all part of the plan for the area, which he described as eclectic blend, and he believes the area will become a destination for locals and visitors alike.

But he also believed the area would reflect the New Zealand willingness to embrace most things.

"The New Zealand culture is one that will embrace all," Webb said.

"It is developing into a much more open, unique part of Christchurch. We hope we are offering Christchurch something different," he said.

"We have let it grow organically," Webb said.

"This is what city revitalisation is about --- giving people something where they would like to be," Bradley said.

The three men are keen to maintain the sense of history and space of the site, which includes historic multi-storey brick buildings, pedestrian lanes and hidden spaces for small squares --- as well as more high-profile retail sites facing High, Lichfield and Tuam Sts.

An access arcade into the inner area of Lichfield Lanes has been developed from High St.

Although unwilling to go into detailed financial figures, the developers say land and work involved definitely make it a multi-million dollar project.

A recent development is the opening of a new micro-brewery and brasserie called The Twisted Hop. Developed by Englishmen Martin Bennett and Stephen Hardman, who arrived in New Zealand last year with their families, the business brews its own English-style beers on site.

Hardman and Bennett said they were attracted to the heritage feel of the area.

"We are from London. It reminds us of parts of London," Bennett said.

They also like the fact the area hadn't lost its connection with its industrial past in its buildings.