CHRISTCHURCH EXPERIENCED ITS BIGGEST QUARTER on record at the end of 2005, and looks set for future growth in 2006.
STORY BY BRAD FOSTER
Christchurch & Canterbury Convention Bureau manager, Annette Pendergast, is understandably happy with the way 2005 ended, with the bureau recording its best quarter on record. And she has high hopes for 2006 and beyond. She attributes much of Christchurch’s recent success on the increase of flights to and from the city. “As a bureau we work on two levels – what business comes directly through the bureau and what comes through the city.
The bureau turned over $20.5 million worth of qualified business last year just through the Christchurch bureau office. We’re definitely going to try and exceed that this year. “As far as the city goes we’ve just had a record quarter.” In the third quarter of 2005 Christchurch achieved a record 217 conferences and 16,941 delegates, with figures showing a huge 35 per cent increase in the number of delegates from Australia, compared with the same quarter in 2004. Australians in fact made up 20 per cent of Christchurch’s business tourist visitor numbers.
Mrs Pendergast said traditionally 85 per cent of Christchurch conference delegates are domestic visitors. “However, Australian business tourism arrivals have been on the increase, with Statistics New Zealand recording a 34.6 per cent increase in Australian business tourist arrivals to New Zealand during the same quarter,” she said. The growth in conference business to Christchurch during the quarter was significantly supported by an increase in the number of large association-style conferences. There were 57 large association conferences held in Christchurch during the third quarter, with 172 conference days and 9271 delegates. Smaller corporate meetings were not included in these figures. “Corporate meetings continue to represent the majority of conferences held in our city, however association events are traditionally larger, and they are booked one to two years ahead. “Christchurch is really looking good. We’re going into a really healthy year and we’re now working towards a really solid 2007. It’s a very buoyant conference market place at present.”
 Mrs Pendergast attributes part of the success in recent times to the increase in flights to and from Christchurch. “Last year or 18 months ago we had Emirates come on board, we’ve had direct flights from North America, and direct daily flights out of South East Asia, and I think these really do count in the big picture. Christchurch is now a very busy international airport. “The product in Christchurch over the last two years has also gone through massive renovations. All the hotels are really good quality, and I think that helps as well. I think Christchurch is seen as a quality, accessible, value [for money] destination, and I think we can see the effect that is having.” She said big events like the IBM conference held in Christchurch in 2005 have also helped to raise the profile of the destination, especially on an international scale. “The exposure that we’re going to receive through the UNESCO congress in 2007 is [also] going to put New Zealand on the international scene.” This is the United Nations Scientific, Educational and Cultural Organisation(UNESCO) 31st World Heritage Committee, set down for June 2007.
It is anticipated that close to 700 delegates from 176 countries will attend, each accompanied by interpreters, media and security. “We certainly have a very strong domestic market but we’ve really had an incredible increase in visitation from Australia. And I know all of New Zealand is experiencing that growth from Australia.”
 Working together
Christchurch’s ability to work together must also be regarded as a reason for the city’s success in recent times. The management of a number of Christchurch’s premier venues – the Christchurch Convention Centre, Christchurch Town Hall, Jade Stadium and Westpac Stadium – by Vbase Venue Management Group Ltd, or Vbase, should only help with this united approach. “It’s really quite exciting,” Mrs Pendergast says. “I can only relate it to saying that if you look at Darling Harbour [in Sydney] and the fact that Accor manages all the hotels, the convention centre, and boats in that precinct, and then you look at Christchurch, we’re only a city of 300,000 people and the council is bringing under their banner – council owned product – one management situation for all these venues. “It’s very exciting for the city as a whole, and I’m very much looking forward to working closely with the new management.” Mrs Pendergast says that in line with the growth of international business the Christchurch & Canterbury Convention Bureau expected to be looking at doing more internationally in Australia and beyond. “We did get 10 international conventions into Christchurch last year and we’d like to be getting more.”
MEET, EAT AND SLEEP
 The George
Overlooking Hagley Park and the River Avon, The George is an intimate luxury boutique hotel with an international reputation that has recently undergone a major refurbishment of rooms and general areas. The hotel features 55 rooms including eight suites and one studio. Its meeting facilities include seven spaces, the main one – Park View – has an abundance of natural light. The re-design of the Treasury, Park View, Annex and Level 3 foyer areas captures the hotel’s chic style and makes the most of the Hagley Park and river views. Designed by Christchurch’s Dalman Architecture the rooms feature new neutral tones in carpets, walls and drapes. A feature of the new entrance lobby is a Ralph Hotere display wall, created to showcase the hotel’s superb collection of work by this leading contemporary artist. For more details telephone (03) 371 0255, email conferences@thegeorge.com or visit www.thegeorge.com
Millennium Hotel
In the heart of Christchurch city the Millennium Hotel features 179 rooms and 17 suites. The hotel can cater for up to 200 delegates and has five rooms to choose from, the biggest of which the Cathedral Room – can hold 160 banquet-style. Its restaurant Piko Piko is award-winning while Bar Sante has a magnificent outlook over Cathedral Square. For more information telephone (03) 365 1111, email millennium.Christchurch@mcqhotels.co.nz or visit www.millenniumchristchurch.co.nz
Outrigger at Clearwater Resort
A golfing resort set on 465 acres, Outrigger at Clearwater Resort features chic rooms, suites and apartments all with tranquil water views. The resort boasts The Lakes Restaurant & Bar, and features an 18-hole golf course which is home to the NZPGA championship. It also has a driving range, tennis courts, extensive walking trails, and onsite fly fishing. All this combines to make Clearwater an ideal venue for incentives, just seven minutes from the airport and 15 minutes to the heart of Christchurch. For more information telephone (03) 360 1009, email clearwater@outriggernewzealand.com or visit www.outrigger.com
The Christchurch Convention Centre & Town Hall
Purpose-built for meetings and events the Christchurch Convention Centre features a large, pillarless main hall that can seat 1200 for dinner and has drive-in access. It has seven break-out rooms and pre-function areas and meeting rooms which can accommodate 2000 people. The Christchurch Town Hall is connected by a glass walkway where an auditorium and theatre are available for keynote speakers and entertainment. For details telephone (03) 366 8899, email jo.robinson@nccnz. co.nz or visit www.convention.co.nz
Terrace Downs High Country Resort
A 50-minute scenic drive through the Canterbury foothills from Christchurch, Terrace Downs is set on a world-class golf course with an endless array of high country activities and outdoor pursuits. The perfect rewards venue, Terrace Downs’ club house has stunning panoramic views across the back nine holes and up toward the mountains, as well as a superb restaurant and bar facilities, making it ideal for meetings and conferences. Accommodation includes hillside studios, golf villas, terrace villas and fairway chalets with up to four bedrooms. For details telephone (03) 318 6943, email info@terracedowns.co.nz or visit www.terracedowns. co.nz
Hotel Grand Chancellor
One of Christchurch’s more popular properties for meetings groups, the Hotel Grand Chancellor is centrally located with 171 rooms. The four-star hotel has a ballroom on the 14th floor with views, natural light and vehicle access. It can accommodate up to 1200 theatre-style. For more information telephone (03) 379 2999 or visit www.grandc.co.nz
Chateau on the Park
Christchurch’s only resort style hotel the Chateau on the Park is set in five acres of beautifully landscaped gardens with 193 guest rooms. Located between Hagley Park and the beautiful historic home and gardens of Mona Vale the hotel is just a short stroll though the park to Christchurch central business district. Three main function rooms make up the conference facilities at the hotel including The Tower Room, The Ballantyne Room and The Great Hall, which being the largest can hold 300 banquet style. There is also a poolside marquee. The Chateau on the Park features two restaurants offering contemporary fine dining as well as an al fresco dining experience in the hotel gardens. For more information telephone (03) 348 8999, email enquiry@chateau-park.co.nz or visit www.chateau-park.co.nz
Crowne Plaza Christchurch
The 298 guest room Crowne Plaza Christchurch is linked to the Christchurch Convention Centre, right in the heart of the city beside the Avon River. The hotel has five meeting rooms including the newly relaunched First Edition, which offers an intimate, stylish setting overlooking Victoria Square, with space for up to 150 cocktail style. Other function rooms include four gallery spaces which can be combined to cater for between 20 classroom-style or up to 100 theatre-style. For more information telephone (03) 3657799, email hotel@crowneplazachristchurch. co.nz or visit www.ichotelsgroup.com
MUST SEE AND DO
Heritage Tram
The historic Christchurch tram is a great option for events with a difference for business meetings, charters and functions. Exclusive charters can be arranged to transfer clients to venues around the city, and special tram tickets can be organised for groups. The Tramway Restaurant is available for breakfasts, lunches, dinner and themed parties. The Great Tram Robbery and the Amazing Tram Race are two unique products proving hugely popular for groups. For details email Ganor Dyet on email – g.dyet@tram.co.nz
Authentic Maori welcome
Ko Tane is The Maori Experience at Willowbank Wildlife Reserve, about 15 minutes from Christchurch city. The inspirational experience includes a Maori welcome (powhiri), cultural performance, a guided tour of an interactive Maori village, wildlife night tours and a Taste of New Zealand dinner. Ko Tane has added several new features to its Willowbank experience, ideal for special group performances. These include an all-weather performance area for day or night performances, and city pick-up transport to and from Ko Tane, incorporating an historical view of the journey highlighting key local sites relating to Maori culture and history. The Ko Tane performers are also in demand to perform at conferences and events in Christchurch. For details visit www.willowbank.co.nz
 A nice drop
The Waipara Valley is about 45 minutes north of Christchurch and is regarded as one of the premier cool climate wine-growing areas in New Zealand. Riesling is the star performer with chardonnay and sauvignon blanc popular, and pinot gris and gewurtztraminer growing in stature. Bordeaux varieties are also showing potential but it is pinot noir that is exciting winemakers. Tours to the Waipara Valley, wine tasting and vineyard lunches are all available and can be easily arranged for groups. Contact the Christchurch & Canterbury Convention Bureau (www.christchurchnz.net) for further details.
Punting on the Avon
Sit back and relax in one of Christchurch’s custom built punts as your boatman guides you past the sights of the central city. Punting along the Avon River is a great way to weave through the central business district taking in the tranquillity of the city’s parks, historic buildings and tree-lined avenues. Punting operates daily weather permitting, leaving from the Avon River bank by Worcester Boulevard Bridge. For more information telephone the Christchurch Visitor Centre on (03) 379 9629.
Akaroa Harbour and Christchurch Wildlife cruises
Cruise the Akaroa Harbour, home to the world’s smallest and rarest Hector’s dolphin, the White Flippered Little Blue Penguin and other sea birds. Or join the Christchurch Wildlife Cruises for a similar view in Lyttelton Harbour. Akaroa is a historic French village about 90 minutes drive from Christchurch while Lyttelton is 15 minutes by car. Both cruises depart daily and last two hours. For more information on the Akaroa cruise, telephone (03) 304 7641 or for details on the Lyttelton cruise telephone (03) 328 9078.
 Christchurch Casino
If you’re looking for a classy night out, try the 24-hour Christchurch Casino located on Victoria Street. Unlike other casinos, the boutique Christchurch Casino sets a dress standard including no jeans, sportswear, jandals, work boots, t-shirts or tracksuits. Punters can enjoy all the usual games of other gambling outlets, fine dining at The Grand Café, or a drink at one of the casino’s elegant bars. There’s also a mezzanine level from which visitors can view the gaming floor. For more information telephone (03) 365 9999, email marketing@christchurchcasino.co.nz or visit www. chchcasino.co.nz
Hit the slopes
Canterbury offers some of the best skiing and boarding in New Zealand with more than 10 ski areas all within two-and-a-half hours drive from Christchurch. From the ever popular Mt Hutt to Fox Peak, Mt Dobson and Ohau, there are plenty to choose from and a range of ways to come down the mountain. From just plain skiing, to snowboarding, or for the more adventurous try a spot of heli-skiing. For more information on where to ski and how to get there, visit www.christchurchnz.net/canterbury/SkiDetails.
The Arts Centre of Christchurch
The Arts Centre is one of Christchurch’s most significant cultural attractions. Located in the historic buildings of the original Canterbury University College, The Arts Centre offers specialty shops and craft studios, as well as galleries, cinemas, theatres, bars and restaurants – all open seven days a week. On the weekend The Arts Centre market is home to artists, craftspeople, organic produce, international food stalls, musicians, and buskers. For more information telephone (03) 366 0989, email info@artscentre.org.nz or visit www.artscentre.org.nz.
AFTER DARK
WHEN THE SERIOUS BUSINESS is over for the day...
The Boulevard Restaurant & Bar, corner of Oxford Tce and Hereford St. This popular restaurant and bar at the lower end of The Strip plays plenty of 80s music and is a good place for late evening entertainment. During the day the restaurant serves up European cuisine and patrons can dine inside or alfresco. For more information telephone (03) 374 6676 or visit www.boulevardrestaurant.co.nz
The Loaded Hog, Cashel St. A chain of popular pubs around New Zealand The Loaded Hog first opened in Christchurch in 1991. Based around the tasting bar in front of the brewery concept and renowned for its original decor The Loaded Hog is a great place for dining, a quiet drink, or a dance party. For more details telephone (03) 366 6674 or visit www.theloadedhogchristchurch.co.nz
The Tap Room, corner of Oxford Tce and Cashel Mall. New Zealand’s first Monteith’s Craft Beer Bar, The Tap Room provides a place for casual dining and socialising. The style of the bar and restaurant is a modern interpretation of the South Island’s West Coast, where a gold rush in the 1850s led to the establishment of more than 300 pubs in the region. With a laidback atmosphere and fresh, innovative cuisine, The Tap Room entices a mature crowd. For details telephone (03) 365 0547, or visit www.monteiths.co.nz
Dux de Lux, corner Hereford and Montreal Sts. The Dux de Lux Restaurant Bars & Brewery is renowned for its vegetarian and seafood dishes along with the perfect outdoor drinking courtyard which is often host to busking competitions and live bands. The Dux doesn’t have a late licence so it makes for a great starting spot. For more information telephone (03) 366 6919, or visit www.thedux.co.nz
Jolly Poacher, Victoria St. Opposite the Casino, The Jolly Poacher is Christchurchs original late night rock café. In traditional settler décor the pub features a bar flair specialist reminiscent of Tom Cruise in Cocktail, good entertainment and a range of beers, wines and food. Open all hours The Jolly Poacher is a great last stop before heading home. For details telephone (03) 379 5635 or visit www. jollypoacher.co.nz.
Canterbury most recently provided some of the dramatic scenery for The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe. Sections of the movie were shot in Canterbury’s high country near Arthur’s Pass, about 90 minutes west of Christchurch. The area is well-known for its wild mountain scenery, including glaciers and dramatic waterfalls. Flock Hill Station, on the road to Arthur’s Pass, was the setting for the climactic final battle between Aslan’s forces and the powerful army of the White Witch.
Visitors to Christchurch can now tour the areas in which the film was made and see Narnia for themselves. According to the Christchurch & Canterbury Convention Bureau the Arthur’s Pass region is an idyllic destination to host a conference or incentive activity, and is well suited to day trips for groups based in Christchurch.
A trip on the scenic Tranz Alpine railway is a great way to view the area. The TranzAlpine, which travels from Christchurch to Greymouth is rated one of the world’s great scenic railway journeys. From the carriage travellers will see the fields of the Canterbury Plains and farmland followed by the spectacular gorges and river valleys of the Waimakariri River. The train then climbs into the Southern Alps before descending through lush beech rainforest to the West Coast town of Greymouth – a great base for visits to Punakaiki and the always popular glaciers. The TranzAlpine journey can be utilised for a day trip or as a pre or post conference experience. All carriages include both one way seating and tabled group seating allowing participants to experience the amazing views while enjoying the company of fellow travellers. An open air viewing carriage allows guests to get even closer to the stunning scenery and provides many opportunities for photography. The trip is 223.8 kilometres and takes just four and a half hours. There are 16 tunnels, and five viaducts, the highest being the “staircase”, standing at 73 metres.
The Arthur’s Pass area has long been used by those travelling coast to coast. Maori travelled in search of pounamu (greenstone) and trade, Europeans sought ways through to the West Coast on the lookout for new opportunities and resources, and when gold was discovered on the West Coast traffic across the Alps increased dramatically. Land in the Upper Waimakariri and Otira Valley was set aside “for national park purposes” as early as 1901, thanks to the campaigning of eminent Christchurch botanist Dr Leonard Cockayne. But the park was not officially gazetted until July 1929, after a large public meeting voted unanimously for its creation, and lobbied the government for support. Arthur’s Pass was New Zealand’s third national park after Tongariro (1894) and Egmont (1900).
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