We've taken the best ideas and learnings from some of the most successful cities in the world to help bring the Central City to life. Find the information, statistics and insights you need to make informed decisions.

Building momentum people in central city

Find out how far we've come and what more to expect

You'll see the familiar and the new. In the ever-changing skyline, there's exciting and emerging landmarks and attractions.

Progress is measured in terms of building activity, business and employment figures, residential population and in the number of visitors we've welcomed.

Here's a snapshot of the latest facts and figures about the Central City to provide context to what's been going on, and to help inform your development decisions.  

Building confidence

Central City building activity over the past two years shows the extent of the revitalisation achieved so far.

The rapidly emerging business, hospitality, cultural, transport and public space environments in the Central City are already becoming self-sustaining. 

This makes the Central City increasingly attractive for further development, and a compelling place for residents, businesses and organisations to call home.

Building great business

The re-establishment of business in the Central City is steadily returning to pre-quake activity levels.

The new urban landscape features larger enterprises, precincts and a growing hospitality community that have in themselves helped to accelerate development.

A growing business community translates into greater employment opportunities: 

  • The latest total employment figures from February 2018 stood at 39,500, with 3900 businesses located in the Central City.  This is now 77% of the pre-earthquake levels and an increasing trend.
  • Office employment figures increased from 9800 employees in 2012 to 16,300 in 2018.
  • Significant contributors to Central City employment growth include the Health Precinct, Justice and Emergency Services Precinct, and Innovation Precinct.
  • Christchurch Hospital is the largest hospital redevelopment project in New Zealand.
  • City-block developments within the four avenues are occupied by small-medium sized businesses, bookended by large-scale retailers.
  • Businesses calling the Central City home include some of the world’s biggest names in innovation, tech, retail, banking, commerce and professional services.
  • The Central City shopping experience is fresh and diverse featuring traditional flagship and speciality stores alongside high-end, on-trend boutiques.
  • Our Central City has the biggest range of hospitality offerings in Christchurch. Bars, cafes and restaurants stretch throughout the Central City - from The Terraces and Riverside Farmers Market to the gritty SALT District and establishments around Little High.
  • Outdoor and indoor entertainment options are wide-ranging.  From the playful Margaret Mahy Playground and glorious Botanic Gardens to the modern new EntX cinema complex, heritage Te Matatiki Toi Ora The Arts Centre and treasured Te Puna o Waiwhetū Christchurch City Art Gallery.

Building for our population

Truly engaging urban centres are created by thriving neighbourhoods and communities. Increasing the population will support the revitalisation that has already occurred.

There are already schools, libraries, supermarkets, cycleways, green spaces and lots to do right here on our doorstep.

However, there is a gap in the housing base size and type which presents an opportunity to introduce a wider range of high quality housing in the Central City to meets the needs of diverse demographics and future residents.  Our data indicates:

  • 579 new dwelling consents issued between January 2018 and June 2019 
  • Central City residential population is estimated at 6390 (as at June 2019)
  • A range of housing types, quality and tenure are needed
  • Currently, predominantly 2 bedroom households
  • Housing stock requires 3+ bedroom dwellings to attract families and mature people
  • People would consider living in a terrace house/attached townhouse
  • We need to attract high numbers of younger people to live in the Central City

How can we help?

Have questions or need guidance? Get in touch.

There's a range of support and services available, and getting sorted early on in your development process can save you time and money.

Email us at centralcity@ccc.govt.nz