The Influencers

It’s fantastic to see the positive impact international conferences are having on our city. This is reflected in feedback from delegates, local businesses, and results from ChristchurchNZ’s Conference Legacy Project. In 2024, Te Pae Christchurch welcomed more than 80,000 visitors to over 220 events, and the pipeline looks strong. Our thriving business events […]

The role of Mayor brings many highlights. One of my favourites is our Citizenship Ceremony. Every month I, or the Deputy Mayor, have the privilege of welcoming around 300 new citizens. Since I’ve been Mayor, I have officiated at 21 ceremonies, welcoming 6266 new citizens, and giving a native tree to every family […]

A deep and prolonged downturn in property values is still helping buyers. The downturn since 2021 has given buyers increased pricing power. Nationally, values have fallen by nearly 18% from their post-Covid peak. Roughly three years on from that peak, the largest declines in values among the main centres have been seen in […]

New Zealand loves to regulate but it doesn’t always get it right and mistakes are costly. We broadly agree with the sentiment in the proposed Regulatory Standards Bill discussion document, although it sure needs improvement. We agree with the sentiment in the document that bad regulation can stifle innovation and give rise to […]

Several upcoming changes to New Zealand employment law may benefit both employers and employees in the long run. Probably the most hotly debated change is the introduction of an income threshold for employees claiming personal grievances for unjustified dismissal. The change means employees earning above $180,000 per annum will be unable to raise […]

Despite the challenges, 2024 was nothing short of transformative for Ōtautahi Christchurch. As the CEO of ChristchurchNZ, I have a unique view of the dynamic changes happening in our city, and I couldn’t be prouder of what we have achieved. Over the past year, the city supported more than 745 businesses and worked […]

In just under three years since opening, Te Pae Christchurch Convention Centre has become a shining example of the successful regeneration of our city. Hosting a diverse range of national and international conventions, exhibitions, banquets, meetings, and live entertainment, Te Pae is helping to firmly establish Christchurch as a unique destination for global […]

I’ve just returned from a whirlwind trip to Japan, filled with fantastic meetings and insights into the future of Christchurch’s global connections. At the Japan New Zealand Business Council (JNZBC) conference, I had the privilege of meeting the Mayor of Kurashiki, Christchurch’s sister city. The bond we share with Kurashiki, along with the […]

Well, where did that year go? It’s hard to believe we’re about to celebrate Christmas and move into 2025. It’s been another busy year for the Christchurch City Council and I’m sure everyone is looking forward to a well-deserved break over the festive season, as I certainly am. If you’re having a staycation […]

Te Papa Hauora Health Precinct is going to be a very busy locality as we move into the new year. Next year will see business as usual in terms of supporting and facilitating health education, research, and innovation, and there are other exciting developments afoot. With Parakiore Metro Sports Facility due to be […]