For 40 years, Northgate has been part of everyday life in Glenorchy. 

Since opening in November 1986, the centre has helped locals get the week sorted, whether that's picking up the groceries, finding the perfect gift, grabbing a bite to eat or catching up with friends. 

As we celebrate this milestone, we're looking back at how Northgate has grown alongside the community. 

Before Northgate 

Long before Northgate opened its doors, this site looked very different.  

For more than a century, the land was home to the Glenorchy Tannery, later operated by Wilcox Mofflin. Located alongside Humphreys Rivulet and the railway line, the area was part of Glenorchy's industrial heart and played an important role in supporting local jobs and industry. 

 One of the site's best-known landmarks was the Wilcox Mofflin chimney near O'Brien's Bridge, which remained a familiar sight for generations of locals. 

As Glenorchy expanded through the twentieth century, so did the community around it. Industrial activity gradually gave way to new opportunities, and by the 1980s, the area was ready for its new chapter. 

A new chapter for Glenorchy 

In 1986, the former industrial site was transformed into Northgate Shopping Centre. 

Opening with Coles and 46 specialty stores, Northgate was built to make everyday shopping easier for local families.  

It marked a significant shift for the site. A place once known for industry became a place for connection, convenience and community. 

Growing with the community 

Over the past 40 years, Northgate has continued to grow alongside the community it serves. 

The centre expanded in 1995, welcomed new retailers and services and continued to evolve to meet the changing needs of local shoppers. From fashion and food to everyday essentials, Northgate has remained a convenient destination for generations of Glenorchy families. 

Today, Northgate is home to Coles, Woolworths, Best&Less, TK Maxx and a diverse mix of specialty retailers, dining and services, continuing the role it has played since day one: helping locals get their everyday needs sorted. 

But Northgate's story isn't just about buildings and retailers. It's also about the people who visit, work and connect here every day. Discover some of the local stories behind Northgate in our Share the Love feature.

Take a trip back in time 

To celebrate 40 years of Northgate, we've opened the archives. 

Browse historic photos of the site, construction images from 1986, familiar shopfronts and snapshots from decades gone by. You might spot a favourite retailer, recognise a familiar landmark or even find yourself in one of the photos. 

Historical photographs and archival materials supplied by Glenorchy City Council, historian Colin Dennison and the Northgate Centre Archive. 

Thanks for 40 years of shopping local.