Covid delay for Te Pae progress
CHRISTCHURCH: The opening of Christchurch’s convention centre has been pushed back to the middle of next year.
Otakaro Ltd chief executive John Bridgman said the first events at Te Pae Christchurch Convention Centre were likely to be in the second half of 2021. The facility was originally expected to open in October.
Mr Bridgman said an exact opening date and first event would be confirmed closer to the time.
‘‘Covid19 has had a major impact on our construction projects, we have a tight construction market and there is some uncertainty going forward, but we are acutely aware business events take time to plan and we want to provide our clients with as much clarity as we can as the end of year draws near.
‘‘The venue operator, ASM Global, continues to work with the organisers of proposed 2021 events to try to tailor events to their needs, where appropriate, to achieve economic benefits for the city.
‘‘Unsurprisingly, any further Covid19related disruptions may change this timeline, but I am optimistic that by this time next year we’ll see Te Pae Christchurch delegates wandering along the Promenade to one of the city’s great restaurants.’’ — The New Zealand Herald