Over 500 hotel industry leaders from across Australasia-Pacific and beyond have gathered at the Te Pae Convention Centre in Christchurch this week for the fourth annual Aotearoa Hotel Industry Conference and Exhibition (AHICE).
Running from Tuesday August 12 to Wednesday August 13, the 2025 AHICE Aotearoa has already heard some major industry announcements, including the signing of Sheraton Christchurch, which will see the redevelopment of a landmark hotel in the city.
The Mayor of Christchurch, Phil Mauger, announced the project in his opening remarks at the conference.
“Many of you will remember the old Noah’s hotel, it really was a landmark of its time,” Mayor Mauger said.
“That iconic site will be revitalised and become a world-class destination… [it will] pay tribute to Christchurch’s past and look to the future in a modern, meaningful way.”
The Mayor described the development as major win for the city’s economy.
“It’s a win for business, for tourism and our city,” he said.
The Mayor also spoke about positive sentiment in New Zealand’s tourism sector, with Christchurch, in particular, showing strong growth.
“6.25 million passengers travelled through Christchurch Airport in 2024 financial year alone – that’s a 10% increase on the previous year (5.69 million) – and that’s a clear sign that Christchurch is gaining momentum, and as mayor, it has been a real highlight,” he said.
“We also know that on a national level, tourism is up, and our international visitor numbers are closing in on pre-Covid numbers, which is great. This has seen a boost into the hotel markets, particularly in Christchurch, but also in Queenstown and Rotorua.
“We know that Auckland will see improvements on next year’s opening of the New Zealand International Convention Centre.”
In the first presentation of the day, STR Regional Director – Asia Pacific ex China, Matthew Burke, revealed a mixed performance landscape for New Zealand’s hotel sector.
“Rate growth is slowing as, occupancy is increasingly seasonal, shaped by supply growth, soft economic conditions, and the gradual return of international visitors. The South Island is faring better than the North Island,” Burke said.
“Auckland is feeling the dual pressure of rising supply and slower demand growth. The convention centre will be a critical catalyst for new business, and our analysis shows sharp performance differences across the city’s zones.
“Christchurch continues to show resilience, with occupancy growth spread across the week. Forward bookings point to an April 2026 uplift, driven by the new stadium opening and the Supercars event.”
Tuesday afternoon saw leaders from across the industry take to the stage for the Power Sessions – a series of quick-fire, 20-minute sessions ‘on the clock’ on key topics including hotel development, design, franchising and regional growth.
In the Developers’ Outlook, led by JLL’s Nick Thompson, panellists discussed the merits of modular builds, sustainable design, and regional opportunities.
In the franchising session, leaders from Accor, Ascott, Hilton and Trilogy Hotels shared an insight into their franchising strategy, the varying fee models, and their expectations for the New Zealand market.
Rising stars from Abstract Hotel Auckland, BWH Hotels and Sudima Christchurch Airport took to the stage to discuss their personal career development and leadership in the hotel industry.
Next up, was a dive into the new projects and development opportunities for key regional areas across Aotearoa, with leaders from Accor, Choice Hotels, EVT and Radisson Hotel Group discussing markets such as Christchurch, Rotorua, Queenstown and more.
In a session focused on hotel design, lifestyle hotels, food and beverage and design budgets were up for discussion, as well as the design of the new Sheraton Christchurch, led by Dalman Architects.
The final session on food and beverage discussed the power of partnerships, ethical and sustainable practices, as well as influence of technology and AI on the guest experience.
The evening concluded with a showstopping Gala Networking Event at Rydges Christchurch Latimer Square, presented by EVT, with spectacular food and beverage and playful activations.
More to come as the conference continues on Wednesday August 13.