Councillor warns Christchurch CBD risks becoming a ghost town

Thursday 6 August 2026 · 4 outlets · 2 reports · updated Thu 6 Aug, 7:57am

In this story Airbnb

Christchurch City Councillor Nathaniel Hertz Jardine has raised concerns that many new central city apartments are being used for short-term stays rather than permanent living. Despite nearly 500 new homes being built in the CBD, reports indicate only about 50 new residents have moved in.

How they headlined it

First reported by NZ Herald, Thu 6 Aug, 4:00am · 2 reports from 2 outlets over 4 hours

NZ HeraldThu 6 Aug, 4:00am

Frank Film - South Island Stories Episode 12: Christchurch: Are we building a liveable central city? (opens in new tab)
The Post via The PressThu 6 Aug, 7:57am

Ghost town: Nearly 500 new homes in Christchurch CBD but only 50 new residents (opens in new tab)
Also on Stuff (opens in new tab), The Press (opens in new tab)