The George is a premium hotel - arguably Christchurch's number 1.
Nothing to see around there, unless of course you're interested in demolition/ construction. In saying that though, if you are a foodie, then there are top restaurants nearby, with the Hotel restaurant (Pescatore) being a very good option.

Taxi to city from airport an absolute rip-off for such a short trip...you're looking at approx $40...from city to airport, probably do it for $30 or so.

Sudima, agreed, looks a little rough from exterior, but not too bad inside. A loooong overdue refurb' is coming up, and may have started already. Antartic Centre just around the corner. Probably the cheapest.

Memorial Copthorne/ Commodore does reasonable corporate rates, and has a free shuttle - and if you're really keen and it's not a norwester blowing, or freezing southerly outside - you can walk to airport too. If you're looking for a few APD, you get some here.

Now, just cross your fingers you don't get anything over a 4.0 while you're there, unless you're into that sort of thing!