Hopes for a few more boots on the pavement in central Wellington today

Retailers say they've been facing a gloomy and miserable situation -- with public servants working from home, and ongoing ongoing plans to pedestrianise the Golden Mile.

Retail NZ Chief Executive Greg Harford says many people will hopefully return to their offices following the summer break.

But he says no one's holding their breath for a return to the old normal.

He says the reality is working from home is becoming a normal part of life.