Why invest here
Ōtautahi Christchurch is a growing hub of tech innovation – a city full of opportunity and potential for investors.
Invest
Why invest in Ōtautahi Christchurch
Backed by a collaborative ecosystem of business, education, and government, Ōtautahi Christchurch offers strong growth potential for forward-thinking companies and a great opportunity for investors. With modern infrastructure, world class education, a highly skilled workforce and close access to key transportation hubs, find out what gives Christchurch the edge.
New business infrastructure
Christchurch is on the rise. The city is developing small and larger scale infrastructure at a rapid pace. Standout developments include:
- Christchurch’s final public rebuild projects – One New Zealand Stadium at Te Kaha and the Parakiore Recreation and Sports Centre – are nearing completion, giving private developers confidence to push ahead with significant new investment.
- Major retailers are filling the city’s main retail precinct, creating confidence and buzz, while housing and hotel developments are attracting more people to the central city.
- Further out, large retail developments are expanding and new supermarkets are opening or under construction. The New Brighton Regeneration Project is spurring market interest with a major entertainment and hospitality precinct development in the works.
- The newly opened The Court Theatre sit at the heart of the city's Performing Arts Precinct. Just next door is the award-winning Tūranga public library and Te Pae Christchurch Convention Centre which is attracting events from all around the world.
"Companies now have another option outside Auckland, and the connection to Christchurch is so easy. The scale of Christchurch, a vibrant new city with modern facilities, and the number of nearby attractions is making it an attractive option.”Michael Dance - General Manager, Riverland Foods
Education and research facilities
Home to three renowned universities – University of Canterbury, University of Otago, and Lincoln University – the city provides a highly skilled talent pool that supports its growing industries, particularly in tech and innovation. With cutting-edge facilities, and an emphasis on research and industry collaboration, Christchurch offers an ideal environment for innovation, and investment.
- The University of Otago’s Christchurch campus redevelopment is a key milestone in the city’s commitment to world-class education. Slated for completion in early 2026, the new campus will serve over 1,000 students and 500 staff, further enhancing the city’s status as a hub for health sciences, research, and education.
“Christchurch’s size actually facilitates multidisciplinary research and commercialisation, making things smoother than in larger, more fragmented cities.”Anthony Butler - Co-founder, MARS Bioimaging
Access to talent
Christchurch’s deep manufacturing expertise, coupled with its expanding tech sector attracts skilled professionals from New Zealand and across the globe.
Local universities and research institutes play a crucial role in nurturing the next generation of innovators, while initiatives like the Ministry of Awesome and the Centre for Entrepreneurship offer mentorship, accelerators, and networking opportunities.
With its high quality of life, cost-effective living, and abundant talent, Christchurch is a prime location for businesses looking to tap into a pool of skilled, forward-thinking professionals.
"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."Clive Seymour - CEO, Canterbury Scientific
Exporting strength
Christchurch benefits from strategic access to key transportation hubs like Lyttelton and Timaru seaports, as well as Christchurch Airport, which are essential gateways for goods to global markets. Despite the challenges posed by international disruptions, these export channels have shown remarkable adaptability and strength, maintaining steady trade flows. The city’s diverse export base, which spans industries such as agriculture, manufacturing, and technology, further solidifies Christchurch’s position as a reliable and competitive player in the international trade arena. This resilience provides a solid foundation for investors looking to capitalise on Christchurch’s global trade connections and long-term economic growth.
