Te Pae General Manager Ross Steele: Business events benefits

Business events are proving to be a catalyst for increased demand in our local hotel sector, showing the significant impact that strategic urban projects have on private investment.

As a Crown-led project, Te Pae Christchurch Convention Centre has notably spurred growth in our city, as we see the unveiling of three new hotels in recent months, with three more on the horizon. Among these are the redevelopment of the former Noah’s hotel on Oxford Terrace and a new hotel on the old Harley Chambers site.

Currently, Canterbury has approximately 4000 hotel rooms, including 2600 in 27 central city hotels. Recently opened hotels such as Quest on Kilmore, and Drifter, have further enriched our accommodation offerings.

The resurgence in demand for guest lodging has surpassed pre-Covid levels. Since opening two years ago, business events held at Te Pae Christchurch have been pivotal for our city’s hotels, particularly during the typically quieter months of March to November. These events have directly contributed to an estimated 200,000 additional hotel nights booked.

Conferences attract international delegates, with almost a third extending their stay by 2-4 days to explore our city and region alongside their partners or families. And with an increasing number of flight routes to Christchurch, our city has become even more accessible and appealing as a destination to host international conferences.

Looking ahead, the future of Ōtautahi Christchurch looks bright, and we eagerly await the opening of Te Kaha and Parakiore Recreation and Sport Centre. These developments will further enhance our city’s allure, bringing even more reasons for people to visit our rejuvenated city and attract more private investment.