Super season delivers super results for Christchurch

The record-setting Supercars ITM Christchurch Super 440 at Ruapuna saw an estimated 14,000 visitors flock to the city – 11,000 from outside of region and more than 3,000 international visitors – with $10M pouring into the local economy. 

 The following weekend, the sold-out DHL Super Rugby Pacific Super Round is estimated to have attracted about 75,000 fans, including 13,500 visitors from beyond Canterbury and generated 34,000 beds nights and $6 million  in visitor spending. 

Hospitality and service providers also witnessed an immediate boost in trading, with fan events and a live site staged in the city to enhance the overall visitor experience that  creates lasting benefits.

How hosting events at the right time help shape perceptions

“When the right events are secured at the right time, they reshape perceptions, accelerate investment and build long-term confidence in the city. For Christchurch, a strong visitor economy isn’t a “nice to have”. It’s fundamental to how the city builds momentum over the long term,” says ChristchurchNZ CEO Ali Adams. 

“Visitors leave with a changed view of the city. Some return, some choose to study, work or invest here, and over time that flow of people, ideas and capital becomes a powerful driver of sustained growth.”   

What local businesses thought of the events

“Major events like Supercars and Super Rugby have created an incredible energy across Christchurch and Riverside Market. We have seen a strong lift in foot traffic, with both locals and visitors bringing great momentum and helping create a vibrant atmosphere right across the city,” says Jo Southen, General Manager of Riverside Market.    

While eateries at Riverside and the laneways overflowed, the Terrace was buzzing with people enjoying the big screen at the Live Site alongside a number of pop-up activations including signing sessions, merchandise and a driving simulator.   

“The Terrace was heaving, and the feedback from punters was overwhelmingly positive. We had plenty of Australians through, all commenting on how good the city looks. It’d have to be the busiest school holiday weekend we’ve seen. The weather showed up, and so did the city — the live site and fan trail gave people even more reason to get out and about,” says Seth Hamilton, co-owner of Craft Embassy on The Terrace.  

Local tourism providers witnessed a boost from international visitors frequenting attractions across the school holidays, with the bucket-list attractions experiencing uplift.  

“It was great to see so many visitors in the city for the Supercars event, with strong visitation across attractions like the Christchurch Tram, Punting on the Avon and the Christchurch Gondola,” says Marty Byrne, CEO, Christchurch Attractions  

“There was a real buzz around the city, and we’re excited to see that momentum continue with Super Round. Combined with the long weekend, it’s bringing vibrant energy to the city and providing a welcome boost for local businesses,” Byrne says.  

Key takeaways

• Major events drive visitation - The Supercars event and the inaugural Super Rugby Pacific Super Round brought 140,000+ attendees combined, generating $16M in projected visitor spend. 

• Christchurch’s economy and businesses surged over both weekends - Local hospitality, retail, and tourism operators saw record foot traffic, strong trading, and increased international visitation. 

• Events are reshaping the city’s long‑term momentum - securing the right events builds confidence, investment, and long-term growth. Visitors leave with a renewed perception of Christchurch, often returning to study, work, or invest.