CPB Contractors has been selected to design and construct the $240 million Christchurch Convention and Exhibition Centre.
CPB Contractors is part of the CIMIC Group Limited, one of the world’s leading international contractors that operates in more than 20 countries throughout the Asia Pacific, the Middle East, North and South America and Sub-Saharan Africa.
“CIMIC and CPB Contractors’ market-leading and cost-effective capabilities in delivering major commercial and social infrastructure position us strongly for projects such as the Christchurch Convention and Exhibition Centre,” claims CIMIC Group CEO Adolfo Valderas.
“The project will deliver a vibrant and world-class piece of infrastructure supporting sustained economic and cultural benefits for the Christchurch community.”
Delegates’ delight
On completion, the Christchurch Convention and Exhibition Centre is expected to host up to 2,000 delegates for a variety of national and international events.
Construction works include delivery of a 1,400-delegate auditorium; 3,600m2 exhibition hall; and 1,600m2 in meeting rooms, as well as associated food, beverage and retail amenities.
Construction is scheduled to commence in October 2017 and complete by early 2020.
The contract was led by Otakaro Ltd, a government-owned company whose job is to deliver crown-led anchor projects in central Christchurch and divest the balance of crown land.
The flexibility and location of the new Christchurch Convention Centre will be the key to its success, Minister supporting Greater Christchurch Regeneration Nicky Wagner says.
World-class
“The convention centre will be a world-class boutique venue right in the heart of the city,” Wagner says.
“Its curved, flowing design cleverly references Canterbury’s braided rivers and mountainous backdrop, but the real stand-out feature is its flexibility.
“Using the auditorium, exhibition hall and meetings rooms, it can host a large international event for up 2000 people or two simultaneous 500-700-person events.”
The facility will also cater to smaller, local events such as community meetings, balls and weddings.
“The direct economic benefit to Canterbury is expected to be more than $320 million in the first eight years, and $57 million every year after that.
“Research shows Australian delegates spend an average of four nights in an event region and another night elsewhere in the country.
“For other international delegates, it’s even longer.”
The central city site is close to the Performing Arts Precinct, Te Papa Ōtākaro/Avon River Precinct, Victoria Square, the Town Hall, new Central Library and New Regent Street.
“It’s also within easy walking distance of the Retail Precinct, which is where we want visitors to spend their time and money.
“The convention centre will be the cornerstone of the revitalised central city and I look forward to it opening in 2020.”
