Credit: LONZA AG
BioOra
A Game-Changer For Cancer Treatment
BioOra, a leading New Zealand biotech company, is revolutionising cancer treatment with the establishment of a cutting-edge manufacturing facility in Ōtautahi Christchurch. Located within the Te Papa Hauora Health Precinct, the move marks a pivotal step in BioOra’s mission to make life-saving immunotherapies more accessible to New Zealanders – and beyond.
Breakthrough CAR-T Therapy
The new facility will specialise in BioOra’s breakthrough third-generation CAR-T therapy. Developed in collaboration with the Malaghan Institute of Medical Research, this innovative treatment has shown promising results in clinical trials, offering hope to patients with blood cancers like lymphoma, leukaemia, and multiple myeloma by harnessing modified T-cells to target and destroy cancer cells.
Strategic Location in Christchurch
BioOra’s decision to base its operations in Christchurch is a strategic one, influenced by the city's growing biotech sector and its potential as a hub for innovative healthcare solutions. Managing Director John Robson acknowledges the city’s unique advantages, including its proximity to both Canterbury and Otago universities, the Ministry of Awesome, the Health Precinct and Canterbury Health Innovation, which collectively provide fertile ground for innovation. “There’s a clear groundswell of potential in Christchurch – things are aligning, and we’re seeing the beginnings of critical mass for the city in terms of technology,” says Robson.
One of the driving factors behind BioOra’s decision to invest in Christchurch was the need for a collaborative environment. Partnerships between the public health system and private providers like Forte and St George’s, create a platform for both training healthcare professionals and delivering cutting-edge treatments. “Public-private collaboration is crucial for this, and Christchurch is leading the way,” Robson says.
John Robson - Managing Director, BioOraThere’s a clear groundswell of potential in Christchurch – things are aligning, and we’re seeing the beginnings of critical mass for the city in terms of technology.
The new BioOra facility will not only benefit New Zealanders – it’s positioned to attract international patients. As Robson notes, “Our therapy is unique, with an exceptional safety profile. If patients in Australia or further afield are faced with the choice of traditional treatments or travelling to New Zealand for safer treatment, we believe many would opt for the latter.”
The proximity to an international airport, the city’s welcoming health ecosystem, and the availability of suitable sites for the facility all contributed to Christchurch being the ideal location. The site will initially aim to produce up to 250 doses of CAR-T therapy annually, with plans to scale up to 800 – 1,200 doses as the business grows.
Scaling Production and Talent Development
This growth isn’t just about scaling production; it’s also about talent development. Robson highlights the importance of developing local expertise, particularly in immunotherapy and the manufacturing of human-grade pharmaceuticals. “If we can train PhD students and scientists here, they’ll form the next generation of researchers and developers, focusing on new therapies.”
The growth of Christchurch’s biotech ecosystem will also bring opportunities in supporting industries like logistics and AI, says Robson. “If New Zealand continues to develop its ability in capturing and utilising patient data, we can position ourselves as a global leader in biotech.”
Bio Ora’s long-term plan is to create an immunotherapy centre of excellence where novel CAR-Ts are discovered, developed, and administered in Christchurch. “We’re looking to build a platform for New Zealand, based on collaboration, to be at the forefront of immunotherapy,” says Robson.
Martin Cudd, General Manager of Innovation and Business Growth at ChristchurchNZ, says Bio Ora’s move will be transformative for the city, creating multiple roles for health specialists and increasing local research and development. “It also attracts innovators in the immunotherapy space internationally and will enhance the health ecosystem in Christchurch.”
Economic Impact and Global Market Potential
The commercial potential for CAR-T therapy is substantial, with the global market projected to grow significantly – reaching around USD$10.5 billion by 2030. The investment in the BioOra facility is expected to contribute $250 million annually to the city’s GDP once treatments are being delivered, with a projection of saving 250 New Zealand lives per year.
Bringing BioOra to Christchurch was a collaborative effort between BioOra, investor Bridgewest Ventures NZ, and ChristchurchNZ, which connected the company with developers, investors, technical experts, and government officials as well as helping find a suitable site for the manufacturing facility.
“This collaboration has been vital in our decision-making and in bringing this opportunity to Christchurch,” says Robson. “Together we are driving innovation in this future-facing city, and we look forward to seeing how our work to accelerate and democratise healthcare can encourage others to seek opportunity in Christchurch.”
Right now, BioOra is poised for rapid growth. The company’s recent $6 million capital raise, supported by local investors such as Mainland Angels, is crucial to advancing its clinical trials and building its manufacturing capabilities. “The $6 million allowed us to move faster. We could hire more people and potentially get to market quicker,” says Robson.
Looking ahead, Bio Ora aims to have its new facility operational in Christchurch within the next two years. “We are very excited for the next phase of our adventure in the city, and for the many new jobs that we aim to create in the biotech sector.”
Connect With The Team
Paul Wilkinson
Paul brings extensive international and local economic development experience to ChristchurchNZ, specialising in foreign investment promotion, trade facilitation, and economic analysis. With a background as a small business owner, he understands both public and private sector dynamics, focusing on initiatives that create mutually beneficial outcomes. Passionate about Christchurch, Paul connects with local companies to support their growth and drive investment and job creation.
Paul Wilkinson
Head Of Commercial And Skills Attraction
Matthew Dwan
Matthew drives investment and business growth in Christchurch through strategic planning and market initiatives. He develops regional propositions, fosters relationships in the start-up and investor ecosystems, and promotes them to key stakeholders. With experience in founding businesses and leadership roles in Christchurch’s earthquake recovery, Matthew excels in planning, operations, and growth. Passionate about conscious capitalism and empowering communities, he focuses on delivering significant economic impact by aligning stakeholders and driving growth.
Matthew Dwan
Investment & Business Attraction Specialist
