New name and design released for Canterbury Multi-Use Arena

Christchurch City Council has approved preliminary designs for its planned Canterbury Multi-Use Arena - also announcing a new name for the venue.

With four preliminary designs for the multi-purpose stadium released before Christmas, new images of three further designs for the 30,000 capacity venue (capable of hosting up to 41,000 people for concerts), created by Christchurch-based architects Warren & Mahoney and stadium design experts Populous, were released yesterday.

Commenting on the designs, Christchurch Mayor, Lianne Dalziel stated “we are delighted with the preliminary designs for the arena and feel confident that we are on track to having a world-class arena in the heart of our city.

“Today we have instructed the Kōtui consortium to begin work on the developed design for the arena. Once the developed design phase is completed, we will then be in a position to approve a design and construction contract.

“We are still working towards the goal of having early construction works on the site begin by April.”

The Council has also approved a new name - Te Kaha - for the stadium, a shortened version of Te Kaharoa (meaning ‘enduring strength’).

Venues Ōtautahi Chief Executive, Caroline Harvie-Teare, told New Zealand news website Stuff that the Te Kaha name would eventually either be replaced or combined with the name of a sponsor.

Barry Bragg, Chair of the stadium project delivery board, added “Te Kaha is going to be a magnificent asset, not only for Christchurch and Canterbury, but for all of New Zealand

“With the preliminary design and new name now approved, we can begin those important conversations on how we incorporate the cultural narrative and the name, Te Kaha, into the design of the physical structure.”

The $533 million venue will include 250 metres of food and beverage outlets, a function lounge with a large terrace overlooking the field, 23 corporate boxes, increased user experience for people with disabilities, and a premium general area in the western stand.

Construction is now estimated to be completed in mid-2025.

Image credit: Christchurch City Council.