Ratepayers from across Canterbury could end up paying the operating costs for Christchurch's new stadium.

Think tank group the Committee for Canterbury hopes to start a discussion on operating costs of the new $473 million dollar multi-use stadium.

Chief Executive Garry Jackson says they want people to get thinking about it.

He believes if there is need for rating support for the Canterbury stadium, it should come from the residents of region rather than just Christchurch.

"The councils of Christchurch, Selwyn, Waimakariri and Hurunui already provide rates funding for the Canterbury Museum."