Investors could take up the reins of the Christchurch Convention Centre.

The Minister for Greater Christchurch Recovery Nicky Wagner said progress towards the city's convention centre has caught the eye of investors.

Last week the Government announced a $240-million construction contract had been awarded to Australian company CPB Contractors.

The Crown will own and operate the centre when it opens in 2020.

Nicky Wagner said there is already quite a lot of interest from prospective owners and operators. She said they will be talking to prospective owners and buyers as time goes by.

Wagner has also downplayed fears the contract's lesser price had meant there have been compromises.

Stakeholders expressed concern the contract was worth $45-million less than the $285-million estimates when it went out for tender.