Christchurch – Living & Working
Christchurch has a thriving economy, with one of the lowest rates of unemployment in the OECD it is not only a
city that is attracting job seekers globally, but its unique location and proximity to the mountains and sea means
Christchurch provides a lifestyle balance that is second-to-none.
The strength of our economy means that there are plenty of opportunities for skilled workers. The following
pages provide you with an overview of why people love living here and an in-depth look at two of our flourishing
sectors: manufacturing and technology, including profiles on some of the great local companies.
Find out more about Christchurch’s manufacturing and technology sectors by clicking on the industries within
each sector and the associated business case studies and recent migrant profiles. There’s also a number of
helpful links about how to find your ideal job, settling in Christchurch and living your dream.
Christchurch – Live, Work & Play
Christchurch is on an exciting journey to build the world’s newest city for the 21st century and beyond.
Out of the devastation of the major earthquakes that hit Canterbury in 2010 and 2011 there has come an
extraordinary opportunity to boldly redesign the city with a focus on the future.
This unique environment has created business and employment opportunities in Christchurch that cannot be
matched in other parts of the world.
After extensive public consultation, a capital works programme is underway that will see the development of
dedicated retail, cultural, innovation and health precincts, as well as a major convention centre, sports stadium
and metro sports facility.
Christchurch has a world-renowned adventure playground on its doorstep – it is bordered by the Pacific Ocean,
beautiful Banks Peninsula and the rich farmlands of the Canterbury Plains. The towering Southern Alps are
less than 100 kilometres away and the resort towns of Queenstown, Wanaka and Milford Sound are all within
easy reach.
Christchurch is globally connected and has international air and sea ports within 30 minutes of the central
business district.
The ‘Garden City’ boasts great annual sunshine hours, world-class education and health systems, a safe living
environment, and a less stressful pace of life. Put simply, it’s a great place to live, work and raise a family.
Christchurch, the Garden City, New Zealand
The great outdoors
When it comes to outdoor activities, Christchurch residents are spoiled for choice. More than 700 city parks, 15
golf courses, the nearby Port Hills, Banks Peninsula, the Canterbury Plains and the rest of the magnificent
South Island provide an exciting playground with something for everyone!
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Canterbury golf clubs
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Mountain biking
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Christchurch Botanic Gardens
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Skiing and snowboarding
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Christchurch Airport Marathon
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Le Race
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Speights Coast to Coast
Settlement support
Christchurch recognises the positive contribution migrants make to the economy and culture. It also
understands that each migrant’s experience is unique.
The city has a variety of well-established and proven settlement support services to help migrants adjust to
their new home. This includes information and support on public services, emergency services, language,
healthcare, transport options, banking, accommodation, insurance, education and finding work.

The Migrants Guide to Christchurch
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Settlement Support
Education
New Zealand’s education system is world-class, modern and responsive – from preschool right through to
tertiary level.
The central government announced in late 2013 that a NZD 1 billion investment will be made to upgrade and
build new schools in Christchurch, reinforcing the country’s commitment to the life-long learning needs of
students.

OECD’s (Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development) 2013 Better Life index

Ministry of Education – How the New Zealand education system works
The arts, culture, food and wine
Christchurch boasts a vibrant festival, arts and culture scene that attracts international performers and
recognition.
There are some 30 wineries within an hour’s drive of the city and many are on the city fringe. There are weekly
farmers’ markets around the city offering farm-fresh produce and numerous high-end restaurants to discover.
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The Ellerslie International Flower Show
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The World Buskers Festival
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The Great Kiwi Beer Festival
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Waipara Food and Wine Festival
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The Food Show
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New Zealand International Jazz & Blues Festival
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Christchurch Arts Festival

New Zealand Cup and Show Week
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The Body Festival
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The Christchurch Arts Show

Festival of Flowers
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bethere.co.nz, an online events calendar