Christchurch's loss is not necessarily Queenstown's gain.
Earlier this month, the Government announced delays to Christchurch's convention centre and it is now expected to be finished in late 2018.
The Crown earmarked $284 million for Christchurch, so will the delay open the door for grant money to be shifted to the Queenstown Lakes District Council, which has its own convention centre plan?
Not according to Economic Development Minister Steven Joyce, although he did not rule out an announcement in Thursday's Budget.
Mr Joyce's press secretary Serene Ambler said: ''The timetable for the Christchurch convention centre has no linkages to the proposed Queenstown convention centre, from the Government's perspective.
''Any changes to the Christchurch convention centre timing have no bearing on the proposed Queenstown project.''
Queenstown's centre has an estimated capital cost of $69 million, including related infrastructure, and $74 million in interest to service a 50-year loan.
The project relies heavily on external funding, including from the Government.
Clutha Southland MP Todd Barclay said last month he was ''lobbying quite hard'' for the Government to consider the council's funding request.
The council requested $20million from the Government in 2013.
But last year, Prime Minister John Key stated it would consider contributing between $5million and $10 million.
Uncertainties over long-term costs have turned some Queenstown's commercial ratepayers off the convention centre plan.
Some central Queenstown businesses face substantial rates increases to pay for the centre and a sewerage system upgrade.
- David Williams
