MEDIA RELEASE
For immediate release
12 August 2013

Quest in Christchurch reopens

Pressure is easing on Christchurch’s squeezed accommodation sector, with Quest Serviced Apartments welcoming back guests after a $20 million repair and refit.

The eight-storey Quest complex located in Cathedral Junction, right in the heart of the CBD, suffered just cosmetic damage in the February 2011 earthquakes, but was forced to close because it was inside the red zone cordon. 

The reopening of the 70 apartments will help to revitalise Christchurch’s tourism and business sectors, which have been held back by a lack of accommodation, says Quest Serviced Apartments New Zealand CEO Stephen Mansfield.

“Christchurch’s critical shortage of accommodation since the earthquakes has been a major obstacle to the recovery of the tourism industry,” says Mansfield. “It’s also placed restrictions upon the business travel that’s needed to support the rebuild.

“We’ve already had a steady stream of bookings and many inquiries from business travellers and tourists.  They’re particularly keen to get back into central city accommodation because it’s close and convenient for new retail shops and amenities.”

Mansfield says Quest Christchurch will welcome its first guests on 12 August and the “soft opening” of the Cathedral Junction complex is a real sign the central city is recovering. He expects strong continuing demand from tourists and business travellers.

“The reopening of Quest Christchurch is a shot of confidence for the city as every available hotel bed will encourage people back to visit or to do business,” he says.

“It has been quite a journey over the past two years with our staff and contractors working incredibly hard to get us to where we are now. But it shows how committed the Quest Christchurch team is to getting the city back on track.” 

The refit has cost $20 million with all apartments being repainted and decorated, and some kitchens and bathrooms upgraded.

Quest Christchurch Franchise Director Bess Thomson says guests will not only get to enjoy the newly refurbished apartments, but as the city rebuilds they will also be close to its newly emerging facilities, such as the Convention Centre.   

“The apartments are just like new and with new retail shops and restaurants opening there is a real buzz about the place,” says Thomson.   

The Cathedral Junction atrium has 19 retail and hospitality spaces and is expected to reopen later this month or early September.

“Having an exciting mix of retail, restaurants and cafes and other facilities right on our doorstep makes it easy for our guests to enjoy the central city again,” says Thomson.   

QUICK NUMBERS
$20 million: repair and refit bill following 2011 earthquakes
70: number of apartments in the Quest complex consisting of a mix of studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom apartments.   

ENDS

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