A hub for innovation: ChristchurchNZ CEO Ali Adams

Game changers. There’s no other way to explain the significance of two major developments set to redefine the business, innovation, and health landscape of Ōtautahi Christchurch.

First, the announcement that BioOra is establishing its cutting-edge biotech manufacturing facility in our Te Papa Hauora Health Precinct is a huge win for the city. This pioneering company, focused on next-generation cancer treatments, will scale up production of CAR-T therapies – already showing immense promise in the treatment of blood cancers. BioOra’s investment not only brings groundbreaking healthcare solutions to New Zealand – that will genuinely change lives – it positions Christchurch as a global leader in healthcare innovation.

With new jobs, world-class talent, and an influx of international expertise, this is a game-changer for both our healthcare sector and the local economy.

Equally significant is the $250 million expansion at the Christchurch Engine Centre, a joint venture between Pratt & Whitney and Air New Zealand. This project will increase the Centre’s capacity to service up to 140 state-of-the-art GTF™ engines annually by 2032, bringing 200 new, high-value jobs to the region. As Mayor Phil Mauger noted, this is great news for Christchurch’s economy, and further positions the city as a world-class technology and aerospace hub.

From transforming cancer treatment to cementing our place as an aerospace hub, these investments are a huge vote of confidence in Christchurch and reflect our ongoing evolution as a hub for global innovation, where industry, talent, and collaboration converge.