As Chair of the South Island Regional Committee of Property Council New Zealand, I am proud of the role our committee plays in bringing together leaders from across the property and construction sector to advocate for better outcomes for our cities, communities, and industry.
Our focus has been on ensuring the South Island has a strong and credible voice with local and central government, while creating opportunities for members to connect, collaborate, and influence the future of the built environment. Our regional priority is “Enabling development and investment across the South Island by strengthening stakeholder relationships.”
In recent years, the committee has significantly strengthened its engagement with key stakeholders across the South Island. We have worked closely with Christchurch City Council, Environment Canterbury, district councils, ChristchurchNZ, developers, iwi, universities, infrastructure providers, and central government representatives to discuss planning reform, development levies, infrastructure funding, consenting performance, urban regeneration, housing supply, and economic growth. These conversations have enabled Property Council to advocate on behalf of our members and ensure that practical industry experience informs policy and decision-making.
The committee has also established and supported a number of industry initiatives designed to foster collaboration and develop the next generation of leaders. Bringing together emerging property professionals and developers to discuss the future of Christchurch and the South Island, identify common challenges, and contribute ideas that can shape advocacy priorities. We have continued to support industry events, site tours, market outlook forums, awards programmes, educational initiatives, and networking opportunities that strengthen connections across the sector.
Looking ahead, our focus remains on ensuring the South Island is well positioned for future growth. We will continue advocating for planning and regulatory systems that provide greater certainty, support infrastructure investment, and encourage sustainable development. We intend to deepen our relationships with councils, government agencies, developers, investors, and community stakeholders, while actively contributing to discussions around housing, resilience, infrastructure funding, urban revitalisation, and economic development. Our aim is to ensure that South Island communities remain attractive places to live, work, invest, and do business.
Most importantly, we see Property Council’s role as a constructive partner. We are not simply advocating for the property sector; we are helping shape the long-term future of our cities and regions. By bringing together diverse perspectives from across the industry and maintaining strong relationships with decision-makers, we can help unlock investment, improve confidence, and support thriving, resilient communities throughout the South Island.
