The first New Zealand club for Aussie gym franchise Plus Fitness has just opened in Christchurch with two more territories already sold. Ten further outlets are planned for 2016.

Nigel Miller, managing director of Plus Fitness, said there is ongoing interest from overseas markets but launching in neighbouring New Zealand had particular advantages.

“Opening our first gym in New Zealand has enabled us to navigate this next step in our business growth and development with more ease due to the geographical proximity to Australia.

“It has been important to us throughout this project to ensure that in opening internationally we maintain the same standards that have been achieved in cementing our reputation in the 24 hour gym franchise space in Australia over the past five years.”

The New Zealand initiative has been led for the past 12 months by John Fuller, founding director of Plus Fitness.

“All of the research points to gym goers in New Zealand having responded well to the 24 hour gym model.”

Fuller believes the contract-free, low cost model with a broad range of services will be well received.

The upcoming launch of equipment specific virtual exercise tuition technology which includes in-house social media platforms will boost the popularity of the brand’s offer.

There will be reciprocal rights membership for New Zealand and Australian club members.

In Australia there are now more than 150 clubs around the country, with more than 120,000 members signed up since the model was first franchised in 2011.