Continuing a Christchurch legacy
Framed by the Avon River, The Terrace is a defining development in Christchurch’s rebuilt heart.
The Terrace stands as the South Island’s pre-eminent hospitality and office precinct – at the beating heart of Christchurch’s revitalised city centre.
As one of the first major developments to reignite the city, The Terrace transformed Oxford Terrace and Cashel Street into a vibrant hub of bars, restaurants, and offices. It has become a cornerstone of Christchurch’s urban revival. A magnet for people, energy, and life.
The vision began with Christchurch property investor and businessman Antony Gough, whose perseverance and significant personal investment helped restore confidence in the city when it was needed most. “It took the courage of locals to rebuild Christchurch,” Antony says. “We wanted to create something timeless. Something the city could be proud of for generations.”
Each building was deliberately designed to be distinct in form and material, giving the precinct authenticity and character – as though it evolved naturally over time. With only 40 per cent of the site built on, and the remainder devoted to laneways and open public spaces, The Terrace was created for people, not just buildings.
Now entering a new phase, James Gough, Antony’s nephew and a long-time director of The Terrace, has stepped into a visible and hands-on role as Executive Director. Having recently retired after 15 years as a Christchurch City Councillor, James brings deep experience in business, property, and governance, along with an instinctive understanding of the city and its people.
“Antony’s vision created one of the South Island’s most defining precincts,” James says. “My role is to help carry that legacy forward – to take some pressure off, bring fresh energy, and ensure The Terrace keeps leading the way. It’s about continuity, confidence, and helping ensure Christchurch thrives.”
World-class operators recognised the strength of the precinct early on, and many have since expanded with multiple venues within The Terrace – a reflection of both their capability and the environment that allows them to excel.
The central piazza is steadily becoming livelier as new restaurants and bars open around it – each bringing something unique and adding to the atmosphere.
And the evolution doesn’t stop there. Early planning is already underway for a new rooftop bar, a clear signal that The Terrace continues to look forward and innovate.
“The Terrace has always been about setting new standards,” Antony says. “We’ve never been content to rest on what’s been achieved.”
James agrees. “That drive to keep improving is what makes The Terrace special. We’ll keep investing, refining, and pushing things forward.”
The Terrace has earned its status as the city’s premier hospitality destination.
With Te Pae Convention Centre driving strong visitation, the Sheraton Hotel now under construction along Oxford Terrace, and Parakiore Metro Sports Centre and the One New Zealand Stadium at Te Kaha both nearing completion over the coming months, momentum across this part of the city is extraordinary. Perfectly positioned along the river, yet without the constraints of nearby residential living, The Terrace offers a uniquely vibrant environment where world-class hospitality can thrive.
It’s a place designed for people to gather and enjoy – where Christchurch truly comes alive and businesses thrive.