The recently launched three-year strategy is set to drive growth of Christchurch’s business events ecosystem out to 2029, with ChristchurchNZ’s business events team to focus on delivering in areas where the public sector can make an impact beyond what is able to be achieved by the private sector.
This focus will see ChristchurchNZ continue to lead business events bidding for Christchurch, work to grow the profile and position of Christchurch for business events, helm partnerships between the public and private sectors and push legacy outcomes from business events in Christchurch.
Lining up with the opening of Christchurch’s new convention centre, Te Pae, in 2022, Christchurch’s market share of multi-day conferences in New Zealand has risen from 9.8 per cent in 2021 to 18.7 per cent in 2025. The new strategy aims to increase this share to 20 per cent.
Business events activities driven by ChristchurchNZ also aim to help grow visitor length of stay in the city from 1.8 days to 2.2 days.
In pursuit of delivering against the goals of the strategy, ChristchurchNZ’s new business events campaign, “Made for it” highlights the assets that make Christchurch a strong choice for business events – from its venues to its landscapes and proximity to other draws on New Zealand’s South Island.
“Christchurch has evolved into one of the most modern, connected and experience-rich business events destinations in the Southern Hemisphere,” said ChristchurchNZ business events manager Bree Jones.
“We now have a highly walkable city with world-class infrastructure, growing international connectivity and access to extraordinary experiences all within close reach.
“Christchurch is entering a new era of opportunity, and this campaign is about confidently taking that story to market.”
Christchurch’s business events infrastructure has certainly grown over the last few years.
Alongside the opening of the convention centre just over four years ago, Christchurch’s new stadium, One New Zealand Stadium, had its official opening in April, with business events a significant target market. Hotel renewal is also part of the picture for the new Christchurch – the former Noah’s Hotel that later became a Rydges is in the midst of a $150 million refurbishment and is expected to open in 2027 as a 240-room Sheraton.
Te Pae’s general manager, Ross Steele, says Christchurch’s draw for business events isn’t only its physical infrastructure.
“The city’s competitive advantage lies not only in its infrastructure, but in the ease and quality of the delegate experience,” said Steele.
“In Christchurch, everything is connected. Te Pae Christchurch is only 20 minutes from the airport, and within the central city delegates will find a walkable, accessible destination rich in attractions, open green spaces and surprises – from street art to local history – at every corner.
“Delegates can move seamlessly between hotels, conference sessions, dining and networking.
“Beyond the city, the stunning landscapes from mountains to sea, and uniquely South Island experiences are all within easy reach – an offering few destinations can match.”
