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The Game-Changer: How Christchurch’s New Stadium Will Boost the City’s Economy, Foot Traffic…and Property Market?

First of all, I write this as a city centre resident, sports fan and property aficionado, so to say I’m excited about this project is a gigantic understatement but I thought I’d write this for people within, and outside of Christchurch to get a glimpse at one of the many progressions this city is experiencing.  

There’s a buzz in Christchurch that can’t be ignored and no, it’s not just the usual hum of construction sites. It’s the anticipation of something big—something that will draw foot traffic, energise local businesses and put the city back on the map for major events. Yes, I’m talking about the $673m development of Te Kaha Christchurch stadium currently being built in the heart of the city. 

Why ‘Te Kaha’? 

Taken from the words Te Kaharoha - the stadium name represents the city’s renowned resilience - meaning enduring strength - the name was gifted by Ngāi Tūāhuriri for the land where One New Zealand Stadium stands.

Te Kaha isn’t just any stadium. Once completed (April 2026), the 36,000 seater, roofed venue  will be a magnet for international concerts, sporting events and All Blacks Tests on our doorstep. But beyond the obvious excitement of having a world-class venue in the city centre, the real question is: what does this mean for Christchurch? Let’s dive into the measurable (and unmeasurable) benefits that come with this stadium’s construction - and compare it to another city that has already reaped the rewards of a central stadium.

A Boost in Foot Traffic and Local Economy

First off, let’s talk about the obvious: foot traffic. A stadium in the central city means more people pouring into Christchurch, not just on game or concert days, but leading up to and after these events. Visitors from nearby towns, tourists from across the country and international fans alike will flock to the city for their favourite acts or sports teams. And when they do, they’re not just spending on tickets—they’re booking hotel rooms, eating at local restaurants, and shopping at local stores. The recent announcement of a decade long naming rights agreement were unveiled as One NZ who are prominent supporters of New Zealand sport, fronting the Warriors shirts and seeing this as another strategic play in a growing city and economy. 

Look no further than Dunedin’s Forsyth Barr Stadium as a prime example. Since its opening in 2011, this central-city stadium has injected millions into the local economy. The venue hosts everything from concerts to Highlanders rugby games, and each event draws thousands of visitors. Local businesses have seen the difference: bars and restaurants are packed, and foot traffic on game days has surged.

Christchurch’s new stadium promises the same, if not more. Positioned centrally, it will bring life to the city’s core, giving local businesses a much-needed shot in the arm, especially after years of post-earthquake rebuild challenges. Economists are already predicting an economic ripple effect that will benefit not just the stadium precinct but businesses all around the city.

The Unmeasurable Wins

But let’s move beyond the dollars and cents. There are also some hard-to-measure, but very real, benefits that come with having a world-class stadium in your backyard.

For starters, there’s the convenience factor. Right now, if you’re a Christchurch local and you want to see a major concert or All Blacks test, you’re likely trekking down to Dunedin or even further afield. That’s time, money, and energy spent on travel. With the new stadium, those experiences are brought home. Less time on the road means more time enjoying the event itself - and that convenience is priceless.

Then there’s the pride factor. Having a world-class stadium in the heart of Christchurch will make the city feel like it’s competing on the global stage once again. It’s a symbol that the city is back, ready to host the biggest and best events, and that confidence trickles down into how locals see their city - and how the world sees Christchurch.

Lessons from Other Cities: The Perth Example

Now, let’s look beyond New Zealand for a minute. When Perth opened Optus Stadium in 2018, it didn’t just get a flashy new venue; it got a massive economic boost. Optus Stadium has helped transform Perth’s image, turning it into a hotspot for international sporting events and concerts. The Western Australian economy saw an immediate spike, with events like the AFL finals and Ed Sheeran concerts drawing hundreds of thousands of visitors.

Local businesses weren’t the only winners—tourism saw a sharp rise too. Visitors who might have previously skipped over Perth were now flocking to the city for major events, turning what might have been a weekend trip into a longer stay, with added exploration of local attractions.

Christchurch’s new stadium could have a similar effect. By attracting international artists, sporting events, and major exhibitions, Christchurch will be firmly back on the map, not just for New Zealanders but for tourists from around the world.

The Ripple Effect on Property Prices and Airbnb

Let’s not forget the property market. Central-city stadiums like this one have a history of boosting property prices in surrounding areas. With increased visitor numbers, business activity and event tourism, demand for housing near the stadium is likely to rise. For property investors, this could mean significant capital gains in an up trending city over the next few years. 

Christchurch’s new stadium isn’t just bringing in the crowds—it’s bringing opportunity for local homeowners and investors alike. So, whether you're a business owner, a sports fan, or a property investor, Christchurch is signalling growth and it’s the perfect opportunity to time your run and get in on the action!

Ant Patrickson, Director @ Rosefern Homes

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