Arena’s decision welcomed
Christchurch can now plan with greater certainty following the Government’s announcement to proceed with both a multi-purpose arena and metro sports facility for our city.
This was a vital step for the city’s future prosperity because high-profile concerts, sporting and cultural festivals generate significant social and economic benefits for residents and businesses.
They also reinforce our city’s strong position as New Zealand’s second largest centre and an attractive place to visit.
The key now is for work to start quickly and the sporting facilities to be completed at pace to ensure confidence, momentum and economic certainty.
The temporary AMI Stadium has, and still is, serving an important purpose. It has ensured we can keep bringing top national and international sporting teams to compete in events that give profile to Christchurch and keep us entertained. But it was always intended to be a temporary fix.
In 2018, the stadium will see the All Blacks play in the popular Game of Three Halves in preparation for the Investec Rugby Championships, the Barbarians take on the Crusaders, and league played between the Manly Sea Eagles and Vodafone Warriors.
But if we want the All Blacks and other international entertainers to include Christchurch on their playing schedules we need the best infrastructure.
The ability to have crowds of 30,000 makes us a much stronger contender for All Black test matches, as well as improving our attractiveness as a host.
Before the Game of Three Halves announcement by New Zealand Rugby last month, there were no visits planned by the All Blacks to Christchurch – with no test matches scheduled here in 2018 and 2019.
The increase in crowd size and the scale of events will boost our hospitality and accommodation sectors, who are also anxiously waiting for the spinoffs from a convention centre.
Conferences, rugby games and concerts draw people to a city. They also eat, play and shop, lifting the vibrancy of the city.
Since February, ChristchurchNZ has confirmed four international conferences – which will bring 3150 international delegates and between $4.8 million to $5.3m to the city. A significant amount of other interest is also being explored.
We want world-class entertainers to feel the manaakitanga and support in Christchurch when they look to come here. So, get along to the events planned for the 2018 season at AMI Stadium and show event owners that Christchurch needs to be a permanent fixture on their events calendars.
This is one anchor project that is long overdue and will bring a positive legacy for the people of Otautahi Christchurch.