First published on 6 October 2025 on Newsline

Weddings, kids’ birthdays, meetings, sports practices – Christchurch City Council’s 272 bookable spaces and places can host them all, and booking is now easier than ever.

People can browse, book and pay for Council venues online through a new website, Ō Tātou Wāhi – Our Spaces, which has been launched by the Council this month.

“The Council have a huge range of places and spaces all over Christchurch and Banks Peninsula. There are indoor and outdoor spaces of all shapes and sizes, and they're available for hire for all kinds of social, educational and recreational activities,” says Head of Recreation, Sports and Events Nigel Cox.

“Previously, to make a booking, customers had to enquire in person or by phone to check venue availability, confirm event details, hire equipment, and make payment.

“The Our Spaces website improves the customer experience by providing a modern, end-to-end, self-service option with real-time availability. Simply make a booking when it works for you. Of course, we’ll have our team available to assist customers who’d prefer to book directly,” Mr Cox says.

“Casual bookings are quick and easy with the guest checkout. If you’d like access to extra features – like viewing your booking history and requesting changes online – you can register an account.”

Special rates are available for verified not-for-profit organisations, with community groups, sports associations and schools among the most frequent users.

“We know this new system is going to make a huge difference for everyone who uses our Council spaces, and we look forward to welcoming more customers to take advantage of what’s on offer.”

Explore Ō Tātou Wāhi – Our Spaces here.