DESTINATION: CHRISTCHURCH

Check into Christchurch

Having spent the last few years rebuilding and reinventing itself, Christchurch has become one of New Zealand’s coolest and most vibrant cities. From its world-class convention centre and thriving food scene to an array of fascinating attractions and experiences for corporate groups, the South Island’s largest city has endless opportunities on offer.

MEET

As the location of MEETINGS 2022, Te Pae Christchurch Centre was able to show off its stunning modern design and state-of-the-art technology to more than 600 delegates. Located in the city centre, the multi-award winning venue can deliver any type of event thanks to two levels of diverse and flexible spaces, and prides itself on showcasing the beauty and culture of the region through its culinary offerings and warm Kiwi hospitality.

STAY

Overlooking Avon River and Hagley Park, The George offers a personalised accommodation experience in a refined setting. This luxury boutique hotel features 52 plush rooms, a private three-bedroom villa, gym, an award-winning restaurant, and event spaces filled with natural light and modern capabilities. There are eight separate spaces catering for up to 150 with plenty of options for team-building and outdoor activities.

SOAK

Just an hour from the city, Opuke Thermal Pools & Spa is the perfect spot for post-conference relaxation. Overlooking the foothills of the Southern Alps, this new wellness destination in Methven features a range of solar-powered pools, including adults-only areas, with spaces available for private group bookings. The onsite spa offers an array of treatments and experiences including float therapy and rasul steam room.

PUNT

A visit to Christchurch would be incomplete without gliding down the tranquil waters of the Avon River in one of the city’s famous Edwardianstyle punts. A 45-minute private punting charter is available for groups, offering delegates a memorable off-site activity and the opportunity to view the city from a truly unique perspective.

EAT

Taste the flavours of the Canterbury region at the vibrant Riverside Market, selling local produce, baked goods, coffee and much more. The market is also available for private venue hire, offering a range of options for events of all sizes, including a unique after-hours market dining experience. For a fun team-building activity, head upstairs to Riverside Kitchen and put your culinary skills to the test.

SOAR

From snow-covered mountains and rolling green pastures to weaving rivers and sprawling coastlines, Christchurch is surrounded by incredibly diverse natural landscapes. Take in all the spectacular sights this region has to offer with a scenic helicopter tour. GCH Aviation offers a range of flights to enrich any conference program as well as premium experiences for rewarding incentives.

WELCOME

Welcome your delegates and set the scene as soon as they step off the plane. At Christchurch Airport you can now book a welcome package for your business event which includes a purpose-built welcome lounge in the terminal as well as digital options for publicising events and welcoming their delegates throughout the airport.

EVENT

Located on the banks of Heathcote River in Woolston, The Tannery is a boutique shopping, entertainment and bar and dining complex. Housed within a historic former tannery dating back to 1874, it also offers four function spaces and a dedicated Events team that can cater to any style of event. The Atrium is an especially charming space for intimate dinners and cocktail functions for up to 600 guests.

SIGHTSEE

Grab a hop-on-hop-off ticket and explore the city sights aboard one of the iconic Christchurch Trams. A full circuit takes just 50 minutes, or you can jump off and back on again at any one of the 18 stops. Treat your delegates to a special dining experience on the Tramway Restaurant, New Zealand’s only restaurant tramcar.

INSPIRE

With its wave-like shimmering glass façade and light-dappled lobby, Christchurch Art Gallery is undoubtedly one of the city’s most beautiful landmark buildings. In addition to its exquisitely curated collections and exhibitions, the gallery offers a range of inspiring event spaces suited to any type of event, from small cocktail functions on the balcony to large banquets in the grand marble foyer, with private gallery viewings also available.

BREATHE

Conferences can be tough so when it’s time to break away, head to Soul Studio and realign both mind and body with a hot yoga session. There are classes to suit all levels and ages with health talks, workshops and special events also on offer. Soul Studio can also create a reset room at your event complete with chair massage therapy to revive tired delegates.

EVENT

Built in 1908, Isaac Theatre Royal is a great example of beautifully preserved heritage architecture. Located in the heart of the city, this historic beauty features a classically ornate interior with a breathtaking dome ceiling painted with scenes from Shakespeare’s “A Midsummer Night’s Dream.” Aside from concerts and theatrical performances, the theatre easily accommodates private events with seven unique spaces.

STAY

Situated within The Arts Centre, The Observatory Hotel is a celebration of art and design, with each of its 33 rooms distinctly designed and decorated with furnishings and artworks from Canterbury and around New Zealand. Elegant and full of character, it features a fitness centre, stylish Library Bar and a convenient meeting room.

WOW

Located at the historic former air base in Wigram, The Airforce Museum of New Zealand has seven spaces that cater to events of all shapes and sizes. Originally built as a hangar in World War Two, the 875-square-metre Aircraft Hall can host up to 790 guests surrounded by vintage military aircraft for a real “wow” factor event.

DINE

Stepping inside Eliza’s Manor is like stepping back in time. Established in 1861, this charming property comprises a boutique heritage hotel, function centre and a sophisticated fine dining restaurant. With a focus on exceptional service and local, seasonal ingredients, Eliza’s is ideal for group dining and private events in a timelessly elegant setting.