New Christchurch stadium hailed as world first

5:53 am on 10 March 2012

The architect who designed Christchurch's new rugby stadium says the speed with which it was built must be a world record.

The $25 million stadium has been built in Addington to replace the badly earthquake-damaged AMI Stadium for the next three to five years.

The 17,000-seat stadium is expected to be open in time for local side the Crusaders to take on South African side the Cheetahs in the Super Rugby competition on 24 March.

Daryl Maguire says what would usually take two years to build has been achieved in less than 100 days.

Mr Maguire says the methodology used - in bringing in existing components including seating and lighting - helped achieve the quick construction.

Earthquake Recovery Minister Gerry Brownlee says he expects ticket sales for the Crusaders' home games to skyrocket once supporters see the new stadium.

Mr Brownlee says the name of the stadium is still up for discussion.