OPEN CHRISTCHURCH 2023: Canterbury Provincial Council Buildings

Architect: Benjamin Mountfort, 1858-65

This site is age restricted to people 12 and over.

An architect at the height of his powers, a growing province and an international style expressed in local timber and stone combine in the sole extant example of a purpose built provincial government complex in the country. Get behind the fences on a guided tour of one of our most important Gothic Revival works, which has been mothballed since the earthquakes. Hear from heritage experts about its development in stages and in pace with the province’s growth and take a closer look at this period of our political history.

Important Health & Safety information:

The Canterbury Provincial Chambers Building is categorised as an Earthquake Prone Building under the Building Act 2004 as a result of the Canterbury Earthquake Sequence.
The areas of concern involved in this tour have been assessed by engineers and in accordance with Ministry for Business, Innovation and Employment & WorkSafe New Zealand guidelines. After the temporary seismic strengthening, these areas have been assessed as having at least 20% NBS.
To ensure the safety of persons on the site, a Safety Management plan has been developed to include areas that are off limits to the public and areas where you may not stop.
During the tour, you will be required to wear flat, closed toed shoes suitable for walking. We will not be able to permit entry to anyone not wearing the correct footwear to the site.
If you are uncomfortable with this or have mobility issues we would advise that you do not attend the tour
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Saturday 6th May, 10am, 11am, 1pm, 2pm & 3pm

Tours on the hour with limited numbers, bookings essential

This building is also open on Saturday 6th May.

(The meeting point will be sent to registered attendees only closer to the date of event)

Important things to know when visiting Canterbury Provincial Council Buildings:

The ground is very uneven, the tour involves several steps and there is no seating on site
Age restricted: only accessible to those 12 and over. Proof of age may be required.
Wear flat, closed toed shoes suitable for walking
For more information regarding accessibility, feel free to contact us at openchch@teputahi.org.nz.

About Open Christchurch:

6 & 7 May 2023

Open Christchurch is a one-weekend-only festival of exceptional architecture. It’s for everyone in Ōtautahi Christchurch. Building owners/kaitiaki will literally open their doors so you can experience great design from the inside

Uncover new spaces or get up close to the buildings you love. With 50+ buildings and 4 guided walks to choose from, you’ll discover your city in a new way.

Visit openchch.nz for more information.

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Photography by Peanut Productions