Christchurch has moved further into the international spotlight this week following the successful launch in Sydney of the city’s "Re-Imagined… campaign."

Mayor Bob Parker called on Australians to visit and invest in Christchurch as the city moves from demolition phase to a $30 billion rebuilding effort.

''New and renewed businesses will cluster around a city which has the 21st century's safest environment; a sustainable, green city that is superbly connected. We have to share this story of the emergence of our new city."

"I fully support the sister city international relations programme. The investment and tourism opportunities, the knowledge and expertise transfer and cultural exchange that are all possible from this level of engagement are not to be underestimated. It is vital at this time of our redevelopment the world understands Christchurch is open for business."

"While the attendance of Mayoress is a necessary part of sister city visits, we have decided to fund her travel ourselves and accordingly have asked that the staff recommendation on travel expenses for the Mayoress be withdrawn ahead of the report coming to tomorrow’s council meeting."

"While the Mayoress understands the genuine rationale proposed in support of funding her travel this was not at her instigation. Like me she is fully committed to the sister cities international programme regardless of its funding structure and is looking forward to continuing her work in promoting Christchurch and the wider region internationally," said Mayor Parker.