Vbase Statement Regarding Christchurch Venues

Thursday 17 March, 2011

CBS CANTERBURY ARENA REOPENING 26 MARCH 2011

AMI STADIUM CLOSED REMAINDER OF 2011 FOR SPORTING EVENTS

TOWN HALL AND CONVENTION CENTRE ASSESSMENT CONTINUING

Christchurch Convention Centre, Christchurch Town Hall for Performing Arts, CBS Canterbury Arena and AMI Stadium have remained closed since the earthquake on 22 February.

As previously advised preliminary assessments of the venues confirmed structural damage to Christchurch Convention Centre; Christchurch Town Hall for Performing Arts and AMI Stadium.

The status of AMI Stadium was announced yesterday. The 14,500 square metre playing surface suffered extensive damage due to liquefaction and requires a full rebuild. There is repairable structural damage to the stadium, including the need for ground stability work under a section of the Deans Stand, while there has also been significant superficial damage in all areas of the stadium. AMI Stadium will be closed for the remainder of 2011 for all sporting events and is expected to reopen in February 2012 in time for Super Rugby and the South African cricket tour of New Zealand. AMI Stadium function facilities are likely to progressively reopen from September 2011 onwards.

CBS Canterbury Arena sustained minor damage which has been repaired. Since 22 February the venue has supported Civil Defence needs and is also the temporary head office location of Vbase Ltd. The venue will reopen for normal business from Saturday 26 March. CBS Canterbury Arena Ticketek box office is open from 8am to 7pm Monday to Friday (excluding public holidays) for ticket sales to all events. Tickets can also be purchased at www.ticketek.co.nz or phone 0800 TICKETEK (0800 842 538).

Detailed assessments of Christchurch Town Hall and Christchurch Convention Centre by engineers and other consultants are continuing. This work is taking longer than anticipated due to CBD cordon restrictions and priority given to AMI Stadium. Further information is not expected until Monday 28 March. Both venues remain closed until further notice.

ENDS

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