Brand revealed for Christchurch’s new convention centre

Aiming to recognise the venue's cultural roots Christchurch’s new convention centre is to be named Te Pae.

Unveiling the name at CINZ MEETINGS 2018 in Auckland yesterday, Ōtākaro Limited Strategy and Property Opportunities General Manager, Keith Beal said Te Pae (pronounced te pie) references a gathering place.

Beal explained “the name is a unique yet simple way for domestic and international visitors to identify this premium, purpose-built convention and exhibition venue.

“We have worked with local cultural advisers, Matapopore on a name that reflects not only what this facility is, but also what makes it different from any other.

“The exterior design of Te Pae has been derived from the Ngāi Tahu creation story of the Southern Alps in New Zealand’s South Island. The 429,000 individual panels that make up the façade will resemble the colours and curves of Canterbury’s iconic braided rivers that flow down from the mountains.”

Beal explained that in a globally competitive sector a range of factors will set Te Pae apart when it opens in 2020, adding “as a central city landmark supported by great hospitality or manaakitanga, Te Pae will be enjoyable and memorable. Accommodation, shops, bars, restaurants and parks are all a few steps away and drive less than two hours in any direction from Christchurch and you will find a scenic part of the South Island.”

Te Pae will be capable of hosting up to 2,000 delegates for a variety of national and international events. It will include a 1,400-delegate auditorium, a 200-booth exhibition hall, banquet hall and 24 meeting rooms overlooking the picturesque Victoria Square and Ōtākaro/Avon River.

Several prestigious events have been confirmed for 2021, including the five-day Federation of Asian and Oceanian Biochemists and Molecular Biologists (FAOBMB) conference, the first time New Zealand has hosted this triennial event for 900 leading biochemists. The same year the Scientific Committee on Antarctic Research (SCAR) International Biology Symposium will bring 350 of the world’s top Antarctic scientists to Christchurch.

Te Pae is being delivered by Ōtākaro Limited on behalf of the New Zealand Government.

Architects Woods Bagot have worked on the design with local Māori cultural advisers, Matapopore Charitable Trust.

Te Pae is a Māori term with several meanings, such as a gathering place. Te pae tangata is a place of oratory. Te pae maunga is a mountain vista. Te pae whenua is a view of the plains.

Images: Artist's concept for the new Christchurch Centre (top) and the new Te Pae (branding). 

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