What’s at stake: Christchurch’s post-quake revival – major projects are coming to fruition, and decisions by the next council will influence whether the momentum continues.
Background: More than a decade after the earthquakes, the city has rebuilt key infrastructure and attracted private investment. Population, tourism, and business confidence are rebounding, but challenges like red tape, infrastructure strain, and talent retention persist.
Main players: Developer Richard Peebles (behind the new ‘Downtown’ precinct), newly announced council candidate James Daniels, hospitality veteran Peter Morrison, young entrepreneur Emma Arvidson, and Business Canterbury CEO Leeann Watson reflect on broad business sentiment ahead of 2025’s local elections.
In 2025, Ōtautahi Christchurch finally feels on the verge of a thriving future long imagined in recovery plans. Construction cranes and new businesses dot the skyline where derelict lots once lingered.
One of the last big 'blank spaces' in the central city – a 4800 sqm 'super-lot' levelled by
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Key points
What’s at stake: Christchurch’s post-quake revival – major projects are coming to fruition, and decisions by the next council will influence whether the momentum continues.
Background: More than a decade after the earthquakes, the city has rebuilt key infrastructure and attracted private investment. Population, tourism, and business confidence are rebounding, but challenges like red tape, infrastructure strain, and talent retention persist.
Main players: Developer Richard Peebles (behind the new ‘Downtown’ precinct), newly announced council candidate James Daniels, hospitality veteran Peter Morrison, young entrepreneur Emma Arvidson, and Business Canterbury CEO Leeann Watson reflect on broad business sentiment ahead of 2025’s local elections.
