General Manager Ross Steele shares updates on Te Pae Christchurch Convention Centre

Te Pae Christchurch Convention Centre General Manager, Ross Steele has shared updates on the venue’s progress and notes that with the opening having been pushed out to December due to the recent COVID lockdown in New Zealand, 2021 continues to be a “challenging time for our industry, our clients, and also for our build timeline.”  

Steele is hopeful of international borders opening up early next year and offers comments on hybrid events, sustainability and safety practices noting “as the first new generation convention centre to open in New Zealand, we also recognise the long term importance of both hybrid and virtual conferencing and sustainable operations for our clients and for the success of their events.

“This has pushed us to innovate on a wider scale than before and the team are putting the extra time before opening to good use, reviewing and refining our hybrid technology and sustainability systems.

“I am particularly proud that we have been awarded Toitū Enviromark Gold which will support our ongoing operations and our clients’ sustainability goals."

Steele adds “alongside a passion for innovation, our team are also passionate about helping our clients achieve success in a safe environment. The past 18 months – indeed even the past several weeks here in New Zealand – have reinforced how vital it is to have industry-leading hygiene safety and safe food service protocols in place.

“As part of the ASM Global network we are fortunate to be able to draw on the company’s world-leading VenueShield programme, and we have incorporated this in to our Centre’s Event Safe plans and daily operations.

“Here in Christchurch we are at the start of spring – a season signalling a new start. For our team it’s exciting to see the world opening up and light starting to shine on Te Pae Christchurch, and we look forward to showcasing all our new initiatives – and demonstrating our commitment to innovation and customer service – when we welcome guests through our doors at the end of the year.”

Image top: Te Pae Christchurch General Manager Ross Steele