The new centre includes an automatic parcel conveyor system and a high-speed X-ray machine which is five times faster than in the existing Christchurch facility.
The 8500sqm facility was described by DHL in April as its "largest infrastructure commitment in New Zealand to date" and will enhance the company’s South Island capacity and efficiency.
Managing director of DHL Express New Zealand and Pacific Islands Mark Foy told 1News Christchurch was the company's fastest growing market for the last five years.
"There's still a manufacturing hub here and we support those manufacturers to be able to export their goods out of Christchurch and so we see that growth continuing over the long run.
"It allows New Zealand exporters and importers to get their goods to market faster than ever before."
DHL told 1News the investment came at a time of “strong export momentum”, with the company recording 104% shipment growth in the South Island since 2019.
The new building, which opens this week, will also be DHL’s first 100% carbon-neutral building in New Zealand, incorporating solar power and EV charging infrastructure.
Christchurch International Airport chief executive Justin Watson told 1News it was an investment in the future.
"We think it's absolutely fabulous to have such a massive global player like DHL invest so significantly in Christchurch, in the South Island, and really be an anchor tenant for our freight hub that we're developing here."
