The Economic Impact of Christchurch’s Antarctic Gateway status

Every year, from late October through March, Lyttelton Port becomes a bustling hub for a unique collection of vessels. Icebreakers, research ships, and supply vessels from around the world dock in the port, making it their last stop before embarking on the long journey south to Antarctica. Meanwhile at Christchurch Airport, while families board planes for domestic or overseas trips, special cargo planes like the US Air Force C-17 Globemaster take off carrying up to 80,000kg in cargo, on a direct flight to the frozen continent.

This seasonal activity highlights Christchurch’s vital role as New Zealand’s official Antarctic gateway – a status that brings significant economic benefits to the city and the wider Canterbury region.

As one of the world’s five Antarctic gateway cities, Christchurch plays a crucial role in supporting global research and facilitating international collaboration in one of the world’s most remote and extreme environments. The city’s position as New Zealand's Antarctic hub is no small thing – it is a strategic asset that continues to drive economic growth, create jobs, and elevate Christchurch’s global profile.

Recent figures from the Agribusiness & Economics Research Unit (AERU) at Lincoln University highlight the considerable economic benefits that Christchurch’s Antarctic gateway brings to the local economy. In 2023, Antarctic-related activities generated $159.3 million in direct revenue for Canterbury, and $329 million in indirect and induced economic impact. Direct revenues have increased by 11% from 2022, which shows how the sector is continuing to recover and grow post-pandemic.

The Antarctic-related tourism sector made the largest direct contribution to revenue in 2023, contributing $71.2 million and supporting 1,800 jobs. This includes Antarctic cruises, scientific transit, and visits to related facilities, as well as the economic benefits generated by Antarctic-themed events and conferences. The tourism sector’s contribution highlights Christchurch’s role as an important hub for visitors and scientists travelling to and from Antarctica, further strengthening the city’s economic ties to the frozen continent.

National Antarctic Programmes (NAPs) weren’t far behind, contributing $70.1 million directly to the local economy and supporting over 1,200 jobs.

Beyond tourism and NAPs, the Antarctic gateway status has a broader impact on the Christchurch economy. Local businesses across manufacturing, construction, engineering, and technology benefit from supplying goods and services to the Antarctic operations. More than 800 firms in the region are identified as suppliers to the four NAPs based in Christchurch – New Zealand, the United States, Italy, and South Korea. The city’s well-developed infrastructure, including Lyttelton Port and Christchurch Airport, continues to play a pivotal role in facilitating this activity, ensuring that Christchurch remains the central point for Antarctic expeditions.

Job creation has been one of the most significant benefits of Christchurch’s Antarctic gateway status. In 2023, 3,300 jobs were linked to Antarctic-related activities in the region, including roles in logistics, research, tourism, and manufacturing. This has not only provided employment opportunities for Christchurch residents but also attracted highly skilled talent from across New Zealand and beyond.

One of the key sectors benefiting from this influx of expertise is science and research. Christchurch’s universities, such as the University of Canterbury’s Gateway Antarctica research programme, are at the forefront of Antarctic studies, contributing to critical global research on climate change and environmental protection. The city is home to around 22% of New Zealand’s scientific research and testing workforce, making it a hub for innovation and driving advances in industries like aerospace that support Antarctic operations.