Te Pae Christchurch strengthens commitment to inclusive events with new Quiet Space
Te Pae Christchurch Convention Centre has unveiled a permanent Quiet Space, reinforcing its commitment to creating welcoming, accessible and inclusive experiences for every guest who walks through its doors.
The dedicated room provides a calm, low-stimulation environment for delegates, exhibitors and visitors who may experience sensory sensitivities, feel overwhelmed, or simply need a moment away from the activity of an event. Designed with wellbeing and accessibility in mind, the Quiet Space enables guests to rest, recharge and confidently return to their event.
Te Pae Christchurch General Manager Ross Steele said the Quiet Space reflects the venue's focus on delivering exceptional guest experiences through Manaaki o Te Pae, the centre's service philosophy grounded in care, respect and hospitality.
"At Te Pae Christchurch, we believe everyone should be able to participate fully and comfortably in the events hosted at our venue. Creating a dedicated Quiet Space was a natural extension of our commitment to manaakitanga (hospitality) and ensuring every guest feels welcomed, supported and valued.”
The project was led by Te Pae Christchurch's Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee and developed in consultation with Autism New Zealand to ensure the room meets the needs of those it is designed to support.
Dane Dougan, Chief Executive of Autism New Zealand, welcomed the initiative.
"Autism NZ is very pleased to support the development of Te Pae Christchurch's permanent Quiet Space. Too often, breakout spaces are short-term and short-lived, a gesture towards inclusivity rather than a true change. The permanent Quiet Space ensures that sensory-sensitive guests will always have a safe, comfortable area to meet their needs. We are grateful that Te Pae Christchurch is taking a significant step towards a more inclusive experience for all."
The Quiet Space features soft-touch furnishings, calming lighting, bubble lamp, memory foam tatami mat and a variety of fidget tools, all carefully selected to create a soothing environment. Noise-cancelling headphones and earmuffs are also available through the venue's reception team for guests requiring additional sensory support.
One of the first users of the Quiet Space shared the positive impact it had during their recent event:
"The Quiet Space made a real difference to our experience. The calm environment and sensory resources provided a supportive space when it was needed most. We were also grateful for the understanding and support shown by the Te Pae Christchurch team."
Steele said the initiative was developed with support from Legends Global, drawing on best practice from across its network of managed venues worldwide.
“Events are ultimately about our guests. Whether someone is attending a conference, exhibition, gala dinner or other event, they should feel comfortable, safe and able to engage in a way that works for them. We are grateful for the support that has helped bring this initiative to life and are proud to contribute to higher standards of accessibility and wellbeing across our industry.”
As one of Australasia's leading convention centres, Te Pae Christchurch continues to invest in initiatives that enhance accessibility and inclusivity while supporting organisers to deliver welcoming experiences for diverse audiences. Alongside the Quiet Space, Te Pae Christchurch supports inclusive event experiences through participation in the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower and Hāpai Access Card programmes, as well as a virtual venue tour that helps visitors prepare for their arrival.
The Quiet Space is available to guests attending events at Te Pae Christchurch and forms part of the venue's ongoing focus on providing exceptional guest experiences.
Learn more: Accessibility at Te Pae Christchurch | Te Pae
