21 Aug 2024

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Wider footpaths, landscaping and improved pedestrian crossings are some of the upgrades on the way for the streets surrounding Christchurch’s new stadium.

Christchurch City Councillors today voted to carry out upgrades to the transport network on the streets immediately around Te Kaha, Canterbury’s Multi-Use Arena on Tuam, Barbadoes and Madras Streets, as well as some essential works on Lichfield Street west (from Madras Street to Manchester Street).  

Works are already underway to upgrade the water infrastructure to future proof the network for the surrounding neighbourhood. These works also serve the new stadium, which is on track to open in April 2026.  

The transport works will begin directly following the water works. 

Mayor Phil Mauger says getting the right infrastructure in place ahead of the stadium opening is essential.  

“Doing the street upgrades in conjunction with the water works is the best way to go to minimise impacts on commuters and locals, and to make sure we’re ready on day one when the stadium opens.”  

“A huge number of people will be coming and going from the stadium on event days and making it easy and safe will be key to cementing Christchurch as the place to be for big sports matches, concerts and other events.”  

The Council has approved some of the proposed upgrades to Lichfield Street west, with the remaining elements to be considered once the outcome of a funding application to NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) is known.  

The Council has applied for funding from NZTA for some support for the roading elements of the project, however the funding decision was deferred by NZTA and is now expected around October 2024.      

The remaining transport works will be considered by the Council later in the year.  

The full $34 million Te Kaha Surrounding Streets package of work was approved by the Council in June 2023, after feedback from more than 1214 people and businesses were considered.     

Learn more about the Te Kaha Surrounding Streets project here, and sign up for text alerts about the works from contractors Isaac Construction.