April 2018
With construction of the Christchurch Convention Centre on track for completion early in 2020, Ōtākaro Limited is looking to partner with an experienced venue operator to run this world-class facility.
Ōtākaro Limited Chief Executive Albert Brantley says over 20 events have already been booked or confirmed between October 2020 and October 2022.
“We have also brought on board former Adelaide and Durban Convention Centre Chief Executive Alec Gilbert, ahead of trade show marketing ramping up next month.”
“We are now looking for an operator that can make the visitor experience of the Convention Centre as impressive as the scenery and activities that will attract conferences to Christchurch and the South Island.”
In 2014, AccorHotels was appointed in the development stage to provide business, design, logistical and operational advice.
“With development work now complete, construction underway and the marketing effort increasing, the time has come for operators with world-class venue and event management skills to put their hand up to run the centre day to day,” says Mr Brantley.
Ōtākaro will issue a Request for Proposals at the beginning of May and expects to appoint an operator before the end of the year.