Manaaki o Te Pae: The power of people-first hospitality
Standing in the foyer of Te Pae Christchurch Convention Centre, surrounded by visitors enjoying fresh pastries, barista coffee and the buzz of upbeat music, it’s impossible not to feel energised. Sunlight pours through our floor-to-ceiling windows, but what truly lights up the space is our people, their collaboration, enthusiasm and pride as they deliver our first 38-day art exhibition.
Watching our team thrive is a reminder of why we do what we do. When work becomes more than a task, when it’s fuelled by passion, connection and purpose, it transforms into something extraordinary. That’s where genuine job satisfaction begins, and where exceptional customer service naturally follows. Positivity is contagious, and in our industry, it has the power to shape every visitor’s experience.
During The Art of Banksy Exhibition, I saw this in action yet again! One of our Guest Attendants greeted a family entering the foyer. Within seconds, smiles spread, laughter followed, and I recognised this familiar moment: true Te Pae Christchurch Manaaki (hospitality) at work. From the instant those guests walked through the doors, they felt welcomed, seen and valued, an atmosphere that lasts long after the visit itself. These small human interactions are what create lasting memories.
As Te Pae Christchurch approaches four years of operation, Manaaki has become part of our identity. We may not be able to compete scale-wise with the large warehouse-size venues or be awarded for hosting the largest conference gatherings in the world, but we offer something deeply powerful: genuine, people centred hospitality that reflects Aotearoa NZ’s unique warmth. Here, no one is a number. We know our regular clients by name, speak with delegates as though they’re friends, and look after our team like whānau (family).
In an age dominated by digital communication, the value of face-to-face connection has never been more important... for our clients, for our guests, and for one another. When visitors make an emotional connection with our venue and our people, it strengthens our brand, enhances our city’s reputation, and often inspires them to return, this time with friends and family in tow.
A smile, a moment of acknowledgement, personalised service and simple gestures, they all carry real influence. When we practise Manaaki, we uplift others. We uplift ourselves. We uplift our place. Imagine the collective impact if this mindset was instinctive everywhere.
We may not be able to change the entire world, but we can shape the world within Te Pae Christchurch. And that’s where meaningful difference begins.
By Nicolette Elia – Director of Event Services, Te Pae Christchurch Convention Centre
