Over 32,000 delegates are expected to attend 80 events at Te Pae Christchurch through to November.
Conferences heading to the purpose-built convention venue in New Zealand’s second largest city in the months ahead include the International Society of Arboriculture Conference, the International Society for the Scholarship of Teaching and Learning Conference, the UroGynaecological Society of Australasia Annual Scientific Meeting and the 10th IWA-ASPIRE Water New Zealand Conference.
Combined, the 80 events are expected to generate NZ$43.8 million for Christchurch in what is the city’s off-peak season for visitors.
“One of the major advantages of having a centre like ours, is the ability to spread demand over quieter periods for the local visitor industry,” said Te Pae Christchurch general manager, Ross Steele.
“The colder months, which are typically the shoulder seasons for the leisure tourism industry, are extremely popular for conference organisers – providing a major opportunity to build visitation across the whole year.”
“The positive impact is not just confined to Christchurch, with the wider South Island in particular expecting a surge in activity generated from the conference programme.
“For example, from the six major international conferences planned, we know delegates are planning to tie in pre- and post-event touring, often with friends and family, into their itinerary.
“Overall, visitation for conferences during the period is expected to contribute more than 20,000 guest nights to New Zealand’s accommodation sector outside of Christchurch.”
