Proposal to host the 17th International ISRM Congress 2031
7-12 SEPTEMBER 2031, ŌTAUTAHI CHRISTCHURCH, NEW ZEALAND
The New Zealand Geotechnical Society is delighted to submit a written proposal to host the 17th International ISRM Congress in 2031.
Our proposal is for the Congress to take place in Christchurch, New Zealand in September 2031, and has been prepared with reference to ISRM By-law 4 “Organisation of a Congress of the Society” with full details of scope, dates, expected registration fees and geographic location.
The New Zealand Geotechnical Society (NZGS) is a professional not-for-profit organization focused on advancing rock mechanics, soil mechanics, and engineering geology in New Zealand. As the local affiliate of ISRM and the other international geotechnical societies, it also connects New Zealand professionals with the global community.
The standout aspects of our offer are:
The New Zealand Geotechnical Society and the 2031 ISRM Congress
The NZGS is an active and vibrant society, with 1550 members, of which 300 are affiliated to ISRM. It offers a wide range of resources to its members, including technical guidelines, publications, in person short courses and webinars, to support professional development. NZGS plays an important role in connecting the industry to academia, with university professors and researchers actively involved in the management of the Society and in organising and delivering our events.
The Society participates in wider-sector conferences, projects, and advocacy for the advancement of the professional practice. In 2021, NZGS issued the final version of the Geotechnical Earthquake Engineering Practice Series in conjunction with the Ministry of Business Innovation and Employment.
These documents benchmark the geotechnical earthquake practice in New Zealand and attracted the international attention. The NZGS was very proud to be selected Outstanding Member Society of the ISSMGE for the period 2013 – 2017.
The structure of the Society includes regional branches and specialized groups, catering to specific interests like sustainability and young professionals. Additionally, NZGS hosts regular meetings and publishes a biannual journal to keep members informed. Through these initiatives, NZGS promotes the growth of the geotechnical field and supports members in achieving excellence.
The NZGS is aiming to increase the interest of its members and especially of the young professionals in rock mechanics and rock engineering and, in collaboration with the Australian Geomechanics Society (AGS), raise the profile and impact of ISRM in Australasia. Hosting the international congress of 2031 in New Zealand offers a unique opportunity towards achieving this goal.
We propose to combine the ISRM Congress 2031 with our four-yearly NZGS National Geotechnical Symposium. This offers significant advantages to the ISRM Congress, as we will leverage the experience of organising a well-established and popular local event, while attracting more local geotechnical professionals to actively participate in organising, delivering and attending the ISRM Congress.
Congress theme
Our recommended congress theme is:
“Shaping a sustainable future in rock mechanics and rock engineering”
This is inspired by the current environmental, economic, and social challenges that the world is facing. We aim to explore how the rock mechanics and rock engineering field can contribute addressing these worldwide issues by integrating innovative practices and technologies. Aligned to the main theme, the following topics will receive particular attention:
- Low-carbon exploration with focus on reducing carbon emissions during mining and construction processes.
- Geothermal energy utilization, enhancing the design and construction of geothermal systems to efficiently extract and utilize geothermal energy.
- Exploring sustainable design and construction techniques • Promoting non-destructive investigation techniques to increase carbon efficiency and improve accuracy and efficiency of engineering geological models.
- Promoting education and training that emphasize sustainable practices in rock mechanics and engineering and encourage interdisciplinary approaches that combine engineering, environmental science, and economics.
Developed around the key areas of the main theme, we envisage that the following streams will be included in the programme of the 2031 congress:
- Rock mass classification and properties
- Field investigation
- Laboratory testing and experimental studies
- Landscape processes, and geological models
- Advances in digitisation, automation and data management
- Monitoring for rock engineering applications
- Earthquake engineering and rock dynamics
- Analytical methods and advances in numerical modelling techniques
- Rock slope design and risk-based approaches
- Open pit and underground mining
- Tunnel design and construction
- Hydropower projects and dams
- Deep energy resource recovery, storage and disposal
- Foundations in rock
- Complex rock engineering projects
- Adapting rock engineering to a changing climate
- Sustainable rock engineering design
- Hazard, risk and safety evaluation
- Current and future status of education of rock mechanics
- Heritage structures preservation
- Early Career Forum (young researchers)
At the congress, we are planning to host multiple events for young professionals and early career researchers. These events will include the Early Career Forum and the Rock Bowl.
Congress venue and location
The Congress venue will be the Te Pae Christchurch Convention Centre, which is located right in the heart of central Christchurch. The centre has been open for 2 ½ years and has already hosted nearly 500 events in its first two years of operation. The main auditorium seats 1,400 people (or can be divided to seat 700), there are up to 24 meeting spaces for concurrent sessions, workshops and commission meetings. The exhibition halls encompass up to 3,300sqm of space to accommodate poster sessions, trade displays and the welcome reception. The centre can also stage the Council meeting and congress dinner with the awards ceremony.
Te Pae Christchurch is within easy walking distance of close to 3,000 accommodation rooms of various styles and sizes, and all key city highlights including retail, hospitality and entertainment. It also overlooks the green spaces of Victoria Square and the Avon River, giving visiting delegates an exceptional experience. The venue has also recently achieved Toitū net carbon zero status – we believe this is the first convention centre in the world to achieve this status. More info on the venue is provided on page 19 of this proposal.
Christchurch is home to the University of Canterbury, a world-renowned university with close ties to NZGS.
Christchurch is situated on the northern flank of the Banks Peninsula, a region formed by successive volcanic eruptions that created a striking landscape of volcanic hills and craters
with interesting rock mechanical properties. In addition to the city itself, the Christchurch region offers great opportunities for rock mechanics and rock engineering case studies:
- The 2016 Mw 7.8 Kaikōura Earthquake caused the rupture of 21 faults and triggered more than 29,000 landslides across the Northwest part of the South Island, which severely damaged the transport infrastructure north of Christchurch, as far as Picton. The surroundings of the coastal town of Kaikōura, located just 2.5 hours’ drive from the city, offers extensive rock mechanics and rock engineering examples of slope stabilisation and landslide mitigation.
- The Southern Alps, located to the west of Christchurch, feature a variety of geological and geomorphological landscapes, including the 650 km-long Alpine Fault that transects the South Island. Two notable glaciers Franz Josef Glacier and Fox Glacier are descending from the Southern Alps into lush, temperate rainforests, creating a striking contrast between ice and greenery.
Christchurch’s unique geographical location with its rich geological and geotechnical history provide a unique and valuable context for the technical tours of the 2031 congress.
Christchurch is located in the heart of New Zealand’s stunning South Island – meaning there are wonderful opportunities for international attendees to explore our beautiful country pre – or post-conference, all easily accessible from Christchurch.
Congress programme
Technical tours / field trips
Proposed technical tours / field trips from Christchurch.
Why New Zealand
With scenery that takes your breath away, world-class venues and unique visitor experiences, New Zealand is the perfect location for business events beyond convention. Find out why successful organisations and associations choose New Zealand for their business events.
A New Zealand overview
Christchurch, often fondly referred to as the ‘Garden City’, stands as a symbol of resilience, innovation, and breathtaking natural beauty.
Located on the east coast of New Zealand’s South Island, it offers a compelling blend of rich history, modern architecture, and a vibrant cultural scene. When businesses consider a location to host an event, Christchurch should undeniably be on their radar for a multitude of reasons.
Resilient Spirit and Innovation: Following the devastating earthquakes in 2010 and 2011, Christchurch has undergone a transformative regeneration. The city’s determination to rebuild and reinvent itself is palpable. Hosting an event here is not just about accessing modern facilities, but also about being a part of a narrative of resilience and rebirth. This backdrop can inspire delegates, providing context for themes of resilience, innovation, and transformation in the business world.
World-class Venues: Christchurch boasts a range of world-class venues suitable for events of all sizes. The Christchurch Town Hall, restored after the earthquakes, and the Te Pae Christchurch Convention Centre stand out as architectural marvels equipped with state-of-the-art technology. These venues are designed to facilitate seamless events, from corporate conferences to gala dinners.
Natural Beauty and Outdoor Activities: Nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the majestic Southern Alps, Christchurch offers an array of post-event relaxation and team-building activities. Attendees can enjoy punting on the Avon River, hot air ballooning for a panoramic view of the Canterbury Plains, or even day trips to the nearby Akaroa Harbour to witness dolphins. The city provides a unique blend of business and leisure, making events memorable.
Rich Cultural Tapestry: Christchurch is a melting pot of cultures, reflected in its arts, festivals, and culinary scene. An event here can be enriched with experiences like visits to the Canterbury Museum, Māori cultural performances, or dining in some of the finest eateries that showcase local produce. Moreover, the Arts Centre, with its Gothic Revival architecture, offers a cultural feast and can be an excellent venue for more intimate gatherings or events.
Affordability: Compared to other major global cities, Christchurch offers competitive pricing for event services, without compromising on quality. This cost-effectiveness can be a significant draw, especially for businesses mindful of budgets.
Welcome to Ōtautahi Christchurch New Zealand
The New Zealand Geotechnical Society welcomes you to the International Congress on Rock Mechanics 2031 in Christchurch, New Zealand.
Haere Mai – Welcome.
A warm welcome awaits you in this city, a place of greenery, contemporary and classic architecture, scenery and space. It’s time to find yours.
Ōtautahi Christchurch has been rebuilt and reimagined, with space for any and all business events. Our collaborative business events community – including the ChristchurchNZ team – are ready and willing to help make your event an incredible success.
Our venues are world-class, flexible, and uber-modern. Our hotels and accommodation are conveniently close to both venues and hospitality, none more than 10 minutes from each other. All this in a spacious and updated city centre designed not just for cars, but humans.
Our city is filled with green spaces, cycle lanes, and precincts reserved for pedestrians (and the occasional tram). We were voted one of the friendliest cities in the world back in 2019, so expect a wave and a smile (perhaps from the tram driver).
We’re connected to the world by an international airport and bustling seaport, and the highways that criss-cross the South Island largely convene here.
We are at the heart of the unforgettable South Island, an island absolutely stacked with pre and post activities and destinations. It’s on the bucket list for a reason, so chat to us about finding your space here in Ōtautahi Christchurch.
We welcome you and your delegates to our city.
Why Christchurch
Christchurch is within an active geological and seismotectonic region and has a remarkable geotechnical history.
The 2010-2011 Canterbury Earthquake Sequence (CES) with over 30,000 earthquakes and aftershocks had a profound impact on the region. Widespread liquefaction, cliff collapses, and rockfalls, particularly in the Port Hills, caused significant damage across the city due to the high peak ground accelerations observed of around 2g.
The city’s infrastructure had to be extensively rebuilt, incorporating advanced geotechnical engineering techniques and risk mitigation measures. This makes Christchurch a fascinating case study for professionals in the fields of rock mechanics and rock engineering particularly around earthquake damage, resilience, and urban reconstruction.
Te Pae Christchurch Convention Centre
Te Pae Christchurch Convention Centre is the city’s gathering place — an architectural and social landmark designed as the welcoming heart in the centre of Christchurch.
Carefully designed and purpose-built to respond to a full range of event requirements, the world-class venue comprises an array of modern, flexible spaces: 24 meeting rooms, 1,400-seat auditorium, 200 booth exhibition hall, dedicated dining rooms, VIP spaces and organiser offices.
Working with our community and local iwi, as well as industry and sector thought leaders from across the region, Te Pae Christchurch will become a showcase of the very best of Canterbury and wider New Zealand.
From authentic food and cultural offerings, to seamless hosting and flawless technology, our focus is on providing our guests with the opportunity to share knowledge, make connections and enjoy a genuine and enriching experience in a world class environment.
Sustainability
Te Pae Christchurch is Toitū enviromark gold certified and has received a Gold Sustainable Tourism Business Award from Qualmark in recognition of our commitment to sustainable operations.
Location
Te Pae Christchurch is located along the banks of Ōtākaro Avon River and across from Victoria Square — a tranquil, natural environment in the very heart of the city. Surrounded by some of the city’s best accommodation establishments, restaurants, bars and markets, the surrounding promenade precinct is designed to be easily experienced with a gentle riverside walk.
Overwhelming support
Nau mai, haere mai
We look forward to welcoming you to Ōtautahi Christchurch for the International Congress on Rock Mechanics in 2031.
7-12 SEPTEMBER 2031, ŌTAUTAHI CHRISTCHURCH, NEW ZEALAND
Eleni Gkeli
Past Chair and ISRM NZ Liaison
New Zealand Geotechnical Society
Michael Stokoe
Business Development Manager
Tourism New Zealand | Manaakitanga Aotearoa
Claire Hector-Taylor
Business Development Manager – International
ChristchurchNZ
