A packed programme of conferences and events in 2024 has seen Te Pae Christchurch deliver a sizeable boost to the local economy, significant opportunities for local employment, and support for the wider community.
A recent study by economists Info-metrics has demonstrated that the Convention Centre’s contribution over the past 12 months has exceeded expectations. It delivered a $77 million increase to New Zealand’s GDP while also supporting more than 690 jobs.
Te Pae Christchurch General Manager Ross Steele says that after an exceptional year that saw the venue host over 220 national and international exhibitions, banquets, meetings, and live entertainment events, the new research underscores the purpose-built convention centre’s direct impact.
“The whole team are exceptionally proud of what we have achieved, building on what has been an incredible three years since opening,” says Ross Steele.
“However, the impressive numbers only tell part of the story. What we are particularly proud of is our role in showcasing our incredible region and the businesses, organisations and institutions within it, while engaging with our community, supporting an incredible range of talented producers, entertainers and creatives, and taking an international lead in sustainable operations.”
According to Te Pae’s delegate survey, the events held at Te Pae Christchurch benefit the local region and the wider visitor economy.
83 per cent of Te Pae Christchurch’s activity takes place in the off-peak season (May to November), which helps to support local hospitality and tourism businesses during the winter months. Conferences are attracting high-value visitors, with 18 per cent of international delegates accompanied by a partner, friend, or family member who didn’t attend the event.
Te Pae Christchurch also represents a unique drawcard for the region, with over half of the delegates surveyed having not previously visited New Zealand and 95 per cent planning to return to Canterbury for a holiday in the next five years.
It’s pleasing to see that most delegates surveyed were very satisfied with their experience at Te Pae Christchurch, and almost all (99 per cent) said they would recommend Christchurch to friends, family, and colleagues as a place to visit. According to respondents, Christchurch is perceived as a beautiful city and a great place for business events, with friendly locals, a highly walkable inner city, and an attractive natural environment.
Ross Steele says that with a strong pipeline of events for 2025, 2026, and beyond, the Te Pae Christchurch team is focused on ensuring every visitor has an exceptional experience and maximising opportunities for the wider region.
“We are very focused on building on Ōtautahi Christchurch’s reputation as a dynamic, welcoming city with world-class facilities, and providing the opportunity for more visitors to experience the incredible food, wine, entertainment, shopping and experiences on offer in our region.”
“But we also want to do so in a way that is both meaningful and sustainable, ensuring not only that every visitor goes away having experienced something unique, but that our amazing community, who have wholeheartedly embraced Te Pae Christchurch, can enjoy a lasting positive legacy from the work we do.”
