Investigation into Apollo Stadium site planning rules
The New Zealand government will investigate Christchurch planning rules affecting the former Apollo Stadium site, following a council request to enable redevelopment for housing and economic growth.
An investigation has been launched into whether Christchurch planning rules are hindering new housing, economic growth, and the redevelopment of the former Apollo Projects Stadium site in Addington. The inquiry follows a request from Christchurch City Council Mayor Phil Mauger to review rules in the Christchurch District Plan for the 4.93-hectare site at 95 Jack Hinton Drive. The Minister Responsible for RMA Reform, Chris Bishop, stated the temporary Apollo Stadium has fulfilled its purpose, and the site should now transition to a productive future use. The government’s review aims to assess whether current planning rules are restricting the site’s potential.
The investigation will utilise regulation-making powers under section 360I of the Resource Management Act, which allows the Minister to modify or remove plan provisions that negatively impact economic growth, development capacity, or employment. Bishop highlighted that the same power was previously used to address rules restricting Eden Park’s ability to host major events. The government argues that planning rules must adapt to support urban growth and enable well-located sites to realise their potential.
The Minister emphasised that the Apollo Stadium site, situated close to central Christchurch, transport links, employment hubs, and residential areas, should not be constrained by outdated rules. Bishop stated that the investigation will evaluate the request against statutory criteria and engage with the Christchurch City Council and affected parties before advising the government. The process aims to ensure the site’s future use aligns with broader economic and housing objectives.
Officials will conduct consultations with relevant stakeholders, including the Christchurch City Council and local residents, to gather input before providing recommendations to the government. The investigation reflects a broader effort to streamline planning rules that may no longer serve their intended purpose, particularly in areas with high development potential. The outcome could lead to changes in the Christchurch District Plan to facilitate the site’s redevelopment.