The Christchurch City Council is offering a free, educational workshop for property owners thinking about becoming first-time developers.

The half-day Foundations 2012 seminar on August 1 is designed as an introduction to commercial property development for investors who, as a result of the earthquakes, may have to rebuild damaged investment properties without having any background in property development.

The idea was identified during the development of the Central City Recovery Plan.

The seminar will provide first-time property developers with practical information, including how to bring to gether a project team and ensure they take a robust risk management approach to property development.

Christchurch Mayor Bob Parker said the city was about to embark on one of its most dynamic periods of development and change.

"What is built today will influence the shape, form and future prosperity of our city. The success of the rebuild is dependent on the support and commitment of everyone, from the council and Government through to the property investment community, developers, designers and businesses. I therefore encourage developers to take advantage of this opportunity.

"The process of developing a building in challenging circumstances requires a specialised skill-set to avoid making costly and time-consuming mistakes. It's important that future developers arm themselves with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed."

To register for the seminar email register@ccc.govt.nz by 5pm Monday, July 30.

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