A premium leasing opportunity in the heart of central Christchurch places hospitality businesses at the doorstep of the city’s most anticipated new venue – Te Kaha, the multi-use stadium set to become a game-changer for the local economy.

Bayleys Christchurch Commercial Sales and Leasing specialist Levi Dwan is marketing tenancies at 96 Lichfield Street for lease by negotiation with colleague Alex White.

Three hospitality tenancies, sized 98sqm, 101sqm, and 140sqm, or up to 339sqm (more or less) when combined, are now available in Lordship Lane, a historic laneway on the cusp of a vibrant renewal.

Dwan says the offerings represent a prominent chance to establish a brand in what’s set to become the South Island’s premier hospitality destination.

“With the stadium set to open in April 2026, we’re expecting a significant uplift in visitor numbers and city centre activity. We’re already seeing major hotel operators and investors moving to meet rising demand, and hospitality tenants who position themselves now will be well-placed to capitalise on that growth.

“These tenancies offer a rare chance to establish a presence before construction is completed, and the area becomes the country’s most vibrant new precinct.”

Dwan says at the same time, local business confidence in Canterbury is at a three-year high, with Christchurch emerging as one of New Zealand’s good news stories in 2025.

“The city centre is effectively brand new, offering the best in country infrastructure, building resilience and amenity that attracts visitation and ongoing investment.

“Lordship Lane is primed to leverage this with its heritage character, international laneway charm, and proximity to what will soon be the country’s most modern stadium. Combine that with the city’s wider regeneration efforts, and you’ve got a compelling recipe for commercial success,” he says.

The $638 million Te Kaha stadium project will accommodate 30,000 spectators for sports events and 36,000 for concerts. Designed to host international acts, major games, and cultural celebrations all year round, it is expected to draw thousands into the central city, catalysing spending across hospitality and retail.

Bayleys Christchurch Commercial Sales and Leasing specialist Alex White says that with outdoor seating potential and existing hospitality infrastructure in place, the Lordship Lane tenancies are ideal for bars, restaurants, cafes or casual eateries.

Public parking surrounds the site, and foot traffic is set to soar as the stadium's completion nears.

“We’re seeing collective momentum in the area as local property owners invest in the vision. This isn’t a one-off leasing opportunity; it is part of a precinct-wide push to shape something dynamic and enduring.

“The tenants who get in now will help to shape what Lordship Lane becomes – a real first-mover advantage.”

In a market where hospitality owners have faced their share of challenges, the prominent site stands out, the brokers say.

“Positioning is everything. These spaces put you metres from the stadium gates, within earshot of major events, and in a setting that invites foot traffic seven days a week. That kind of synergy is incredibly hard to replicate.”