Te Pae Christchurch
We were delighted to hear from Ross Steel (GM) and Jillian Officer (Director of Sales) accompanied by Keith Beale (Owners Rep) about the exciting new Christchurch Conference Centre that is planning to open in late 2020.
Ross started by explaining that Te Pae is a joint venture with AEG Ogden, a world-wide company attached to 150 venues which run 22,000 live events annually in a wide range arenas, stadiums and theatres. “Being the largest company of its type in the world gives us a huge advantage in management and marketing expertise” explained Ross.
With respect to why Christchurch needs Te Pae, some of the key benefits include (1) products & services and hired or purchased locally (3) delegates bring their knowledge, experience and expertise to share (3) we gain access to world leaders in their fields (4) it enhances exposure to Christchurch’s image & reputation (5) it spreads out seasonal hospitality (6) it generates future tourism and (7) it supports the economic policy of the city and its region.
In terms of target markets, Ross noted these include national & international associations, corporate conventions, trade & public exhibitions, banquets and concerts. With respect to why build a facility of this type in Christchurch Ross shared that we are NZ’s 2nd largest city, have a strong economy where it is easy to do business, a world class education system, are internationally connected with fast internet and have ample hotel rooms available.
Jillian noted that Te Pae is being built on two levels that both contain timber features, It is also situated in the very centre of the CBD and is being purpose built for conventions in particular with the ability to handle 2,000 attendees.
With respect to the name, Te Pae means “The gathering place” explained Jillian where people can meet, converse, share, entertain and perform. The architecture reflects the meandering nature of our braided rivers and features many floor to ceiling windows that brings the outside in.
In addition a cultural narrative, manaakitanga, runs through the building which includes making others feel at home as a responsible host, being central. With respect to the future, 65 conferences for 54,300 delegates have already been booked which will bring $62 million into the economy.
With respect to funding, the team explained that it is totally funded by the Crown with 100% on the benefits flowing into greater Christchurch. The Crown will also cover ant shortfalls for the next 10 years.
We thanked Ross, Jillian & Keith for their fascinating insight into this wonderful new facility.