Westpac Arena transforms to CBS Canterbury Arena

Christchurch's Westpac Arena has today taken on new naming rights to become the CBS Canterbury Arena.

The renaming of New Zealand's second largest indoor arena is part of a significant business partnership between venue manager Vbase and one of Canterburyâs oldest financial institutions, CBS Canterbury. These two

Canterbury businesses share a commitment to add value to the city and the regional economy, and have developed strong ties to Canterbury businesses and Cantabrians.

The Chief Executives of the two organisations say their partnership is a reflection of their mutual interest in building the prosperity of the city and region.

Vbase manages the city's four premier venues: CBS Canterbury Arena; AMI Stadium; Christchurch Town Hall for Performing Arts and the Christchurch Convention Centre.

Speaking of the partnership, Vbase Chief Executive Bryan Pearson says "as managers of these premier city venues, our business is all about attracting events and visitors to Christchurch. In the past year, Vbase venues attracted national and international visitors who injected more than $60 million in direct visitor spending into the local economy."

CBS Canterbury Chief Executive Bryan Inch says a quarter of a million people will make CBS Canterbury Arena a destination over the next year.

Inch explains "CBS Canterbury Arena is one of the region's key entertainment venues - hosting tradeshows, premium sporting and entertainment events. We look forward to working with Vbase, which aims to provide an outstanding experience for every client and every guest."

CBS Canterbury is a local business success story, having recently faced the very real operational and economic challenges of a recessionary market environment and notably, one year on, has emerged in positive growth mode.

In the past year, Vbase has concluded the significant redevelopment of AMI Stadium, marked by the opening of the new Deans Stand in January. Preparations are continuing into 2011, when it will host two quarter-finals and five quality pool matches at Rugby World Cup.

The commitment of Vbase to the ongoing development of its Christchurch-based venue portfolio is further demonstrated through plans to expand Christchurch Convention Centre and commencement of major refurbishment and conservation of Christchurch Town Hall for Performing Arts.

11th May 2009 - NEW LOOK BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT TEAM AT VBASE