The licence fee seems to be more of a 'what can you bring to the table' situation rather than just a straight up 'outbid everyone else with pure cash' scenario.
The Dolphins commited $2M per year to player development for example and because of their location, Fox stumped up $75M because it meant more highly rating Broncos matches on Fox and more SEQ content in general.
Christchurch could easily demonstrate 'buy-in' by committing to invest in more South Island player pathways which is a new playing pool for the NRL (very appealing), get Sky to commit to chipping in whatever they can and the NRL may be more than happy with that. Way better than Perth arrogantly writing $0
I've mentioned it before, but it's worth keeping in mind that bringing in Christchurch is ALSO signalling to other NRL clubs & bids that the NRL likes the prospect of games in a new & enclosed stadium.
There's some existing clubs out there that are pondering upgrades or new builds, plus expansion possibilities like Perth, Ipswich & Adelaide which may be looking at upgrades/new stadiums .
Bringing in a new club that plays mostly at One NZ Stadium & Forsythe Barr Stadium signals that the NRL values that type of facility - better playing conditions, better crowd comfort, ideal for night games.
