Ōtautahi Christchurch offers a highly skilled and diverse talent pool, with strengths in technology, engineering, aerospace and agriculture. The city is home to leading universities, polytechs and research institutes, producing graduates equipped with innovative, future-ready skills.
Learn more about the industries creating and attracting talent to Ōtautahi Christchurch below.
Talent pool
Workforce snapshot
Òtautahi Christchurch is a growing city with a dynamic workforce, diverse economy, and strong business appeal.
Of the working-age population is employed full-time, demonstrating a robust and committed workforce.
12%
That’s the contribution of the professional, scientific and technical services to Christchurch’s GDP – exceeding the national average of 9.6%.
47, 450
Businesses call Christchurch home. employing around 241,200 people as of February 2024.
21%
Of Christchurch residents aged 15 and over hold a bachelor's degree or higher - we're well-educated.
A strong talent pipeline
Universities and research institutes play a key role in nurturing innovation, while initiatives like the UC Centre for Entrepreneurship provide mentorship, accelerators, and networking opportunities.
University of Canterbury (UC)
The University of Canterbury is known for engineering, computer science, and business. UC fosters an entrepreneurial spirit and produces graduates ready to make an impact in both established industries and emerging fields.
Lincoln University
Specialising in agriculture and environmental sciences, Lincoln University is a leader in agritech and produces graduates highly sought after by global companies.
Otago University (Christchurch campus)
The University of Otago Christchurch campus is a specialised health sciences school located in the heart of Te Papa Hauora (the city's dedicated health precinct). Many of its teaching and research staff hold joint positions with Te Whatu Ora – ensuring close clinical links.
Ara Institute of Canterbury
The largest institute of technology in the South Island. Ara produces graduates in a wide range of areas, including Laboratory Technology, Engineering Technology, Computing & ICT and Commerce & Business.
growth sectors
Industries creating and attracting talent
Christchurch’s strong manufacturing base and expanding tech sector attract skilled professionals both locally and internationally.
A supportive business ecosystem with government-backed programmes plays a key role in attracting and retaining talent. With its affordable living and high quality of life, Christchurch is the ideal location to tap into a pool of forward-thinking talent.
ChristchurchNZ has created a dedicated online toolkit of resources to support employers, recruiters, and tertiaries to showcase the city as a great place to work, live, study and play.
"Christchurch has provided a good flow of scientific and manufacturing talent over the years. Many of our employees are locals or have settled here from up north or overseas. They come for the lifestyle and want to balance family life with work in a globally active, high-tech, regulated industry."
