Why Christchurch?

Christchurch is on the rise. The city is developing small and larger scale infrastructure at a rapid pace. Standout developments include:

• Christchurch’s final public rebuild projects – One New Zealand Stadium at Te Kaha and the Parakiore Recreation and Sports Centre – are nearing completion, giving private developers confidence to push ahead with significant new investment.
• Major retailers are filling the city’s main retail precinct, creating confidence and buzz, while housing and hotel developments are attracting more people to the central city.
• Further out, large retail developments are expanding and new supermarkets are opening or under construction. The New Brighton Regeneration Project is spurring market interest with a major entertainment and hospitality precinct development in the works.
• Back in the city, the Court Theatre is nearing completion and will sit at the heart of the city's Performing Arts Precinct. Just next door is the award-winning Tūranga public library and Te Pae Christchurch Convention Centre which is attracting events from all around the world.

Home to three renowned universities – University of Canterbury, University of Otago, and Lincoln University – the city provides a highly skilled talent pool that supports its growing industries, particularly in tech and innovation. With cutting-edge facilities, and an emphasis on research and industry collaboration, Christchurch offers an ideal environment for innovation, and investment.

• The University of Otago’s Christchurch campus redevelopment is a key milestone in the city’s commitment to world-class education. Slated for completion in early 2026, the new campus will serve over 1,000 students and 500 staff, further enhancing the city’s status as a hub for health sciences, research, and education. 

Christchurch’s deep manufacturing expertise, coupled with its expanding tech sector attracts skilled professionals from New Zealand and across the globe. Local universities and research institutes play a crucial role in nurturing the next generation of innovators, while initiatives like the Ministry of Awesome and the Centre for Entrepreneurship offer mentorship, accelerators, and networking opportunities. With its high quality of life, cost-effective living, and abundant talent, Christchurch is a prime location for businesses looking to tap into a pool of skilled, forward-thinking professionals.

Christchurch benefits from strategic access to key transportation hubs like Lyttelton and Timaru seaports, as well as Christchurch Airport, which are essential gateways for goods to global markets. Despite the challenges posed by international disruptions, these export channels have shown remarkable adaptability and strength, maintaining steady trade flows. The city’s diverse export base, which spans industries such as agriculture, manufacturing, and technology, further solidifies Christchurch’s position as a reliable and competitive player in the international trade arena. This resilience provides a solid foundation for investors looking to capitalise on Christchurch’s global trade connections and long-term economic growth.