Latest update: 24/09/2016

Work to begin soon on Convention Centre site

July 2016

With early design and master planning stages successfully completed, Ōtākaro Limited is looking forward to taking the lead in an exciting new phase for Christchurch’s Convention Centre Precinct project.

The Crown-owned company tasked with delivering central city anchor projects on the Government’s behalf will be responsible for taking design plans developed to date with development consortium Plenary Conventions New Zealand, and finalising the design, preparation of the Precinct site and construction of the Convention Centre.

Ōtākaro Limited Chief Executive Albert Brantley says he is confident the project team will select and work with the right partners to complete this work and build a high-quality facility for Christchurch.

“A lot of work has already been done in the purchase and clearing of land, and in design and planning, but there is now a clear goal in site to complete that design and build the centre,” Mr Brantley says.  

Work preparing the Precinct site for building will begin immediately.  The initial phase of work in July will see underground services rerouted and the section of Gloucester Street between Colombo Street and Oxford Terrace closed.  During this time an engagement process with potential early works contractors will get underway to allow substantial earthworks to begin in October.

“We are delivering a world-class Convention Centre Precinct that will incorporate accommodation, retail and hospitality,” Mr Brantley says.

With its 1400-delegate plenary capacity, the Christchurch Convention Centre will complement the larger 3500-delegate facility in Auckland, and the proposed smaller facility in Queenstown and will attract events and visitors to the city and New Zealand.

Ōtākaro Limited will not be discussing details relating to cost ahead of any agreements with design and build contractors so the best possible deal is reached for the taxpayer.