Christchurch launches city-first business events partnership

Christchurch launches city-first business events partnership

A new business events partnership in New Zealand’s second-largest city will transform the way it secures international conferences and events.

Spearheaded by Tourism New Zealand, ChristchurchNZ and Te Pae Christchurch Convention Centre, the ‘Business Events Christchurch’ campaign has been established to put the city on the map as a world-class destination for business events.

The approach marks a new united direction for the business events sector in Christchurch.

Designed to complement the work of the ChristchurchNZ Convention Bureau, it is expected to further increase the reach of the city and aid in highlighting the city’s selling points to a wider range of international markets.

Officially launched at Asia Pacific Incentives Meetings Event (AIME) 2020, the first campaign for Business Events Christchurch will commence in Australia in March.

ChristchurchNZ general manager of destination and attraction Loren Heaphy said Ōtautahi Christchurch is re-emerging as a premier destination for business events.

“We are a vibrant and modern urban centre capable of hosting large-scale events, while offering delegates a boutique city experience with easy access to spectacular natural landscapes,” she said.

“We are confident this campaign will enhance the perception of our city in this space and boost the economic value of this sector to our region.”

The new direction is supported by growth in key infrastructure, with Te Pae Christchurch set to launch in October, as well as a range of new and upgraded hotels, restaurants, venues, and technology services.

Artist’s impression of Te Pae Christchurch’s auditorium (supplied)

Te Pae Christchurch general manager Ross Steele said the new venue will mark a new era for events and conferences in Christchurch.

“Te Pae Christchurch is the first purpose-built venue of its kind in New Zealand,” he said.

“Designed for the most modern city in the country, it will complement the city’s existing and recently-announced infrastructure … to further position us as a world-class destination for business events.

“We’re thrilled to be part of Business Events Christchurch – an exciting new direction for the industry in Christchurch. By working together we have an opportunity to make a real difference, not just to the business events sector in Christchurch, but also in the economic, social and legacy benefits that will follow.”

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