Minister investigates Christchurch planning rules regarding old stadium site
Friday 9 October 2026 · 2 outlets · 2 reports · updated In this story Chris Bishop, Phil Mauger
Resource Management Act Reform Minister Chris Bishop has launched an investigation into Christchurch's planning rules. The review follows a request from Mayor Phil Mauger to determine if current regulations are hindering economic growth and housing redevelopment at the former Apollo Projects Stadium site.
Key facts
5 facts
- Minister Chris Bishop launched an investigation into Christchurch planning rules for the Apollo Projects Stadium site
- The site is 4.93 hectares in size
- The site is currently zoned for community metropolitan facilities only
- Public consultation is scheduled for the first quarter of 2027
- The Apollo Projects Stadium closed when the new One NZ Stadium opened in May
The full story
1 min read · 2 outlets
Minister for RMA Reform Chris Bishop has launched an investigation into whether Christchurch City Council planning rules are preventing economic growth and housing development at the Apollo Projects Stadium site. The investigation will assess if current rules are holding back a well-located site close to central Christchurch, transport links, and residential areas.
The 4.93ha property is currently zoned only for community metropolitan facilities. Mayor Phil Mauger previously requested that the minister allow the council to change the district plan to permit redevelopment of the site.
The investigation will involve engagement with the city council and affected parties before officials provide advice to the Government. Public consultation is planned for the first quarter of 2027.
The Addington Raceway, owned by the New Zealand Metropolitan Trotting Club, has expressed interest in buying or leasing the site for a community hub. This would incorporate the land into a larger redevelopment plan for its own surplus land.
How it developed
- Fri 9 Oct, 9:53amThe report specifies the site size as 4.93ha and notes the New Zealand Metropolitan Trotting Club has not yet applied for a plan change.
Where reports differ
- One report describes the site as 5ha while another specifies it is 4.93ha
Compiled from reports by The Press and NZ Herald.
