Te Pae Christchurch Convention Centre is helping to combat the usual winter tourism slump by attracting thousands of visitors and generating millions in economic impact for the city.
The centre is currently in the middle of its busiest season since opening in May 2022. Over the four months to November 2025, more than 32,000 visitors are expected to attend over 80 events, with an estimated economic impact of over NZ$43.8 million (US$25.4 million).
General manager Ross Steele highlighted the value of the venue in balancing out seasonal fluctuations in the tourism industry.
“The colder months, which are typically the shoulder seasons for leisure tourism, are extremely popular for conference organisers,” said Steele. “This provides a major opportunity to boost visitation year-round.”
Over the next four months, the event schedule includes 36 multi-day conferences, six of which are major international events. These conferences are expected to generate approximately 50,000 hotel nights in Christchurch alone.
“The positive impact is not just confined to Christchurch, with the wider South Island in particular expecting a surge in activity generated from the conference programme,” said Ross.
“For example, from the six major international conferences planned, we know delegates are planning to tie in pre- and post-event touring, often with friends and family, into their itinerary. Overall, visitation for conferences during the period is expected to contribute more than 20,000 guest nights to New Zealand’s accommodation sector outside of Christchurch.”
