Open Christchurch 2023: Christchurch Town Hall Engineering Tour

OPEN CHRISTCHURCH 2023: Christchurch Town Hall Engineering Tour

Architect: Warren & Mahoney, 1972

Enjoy a guided tour of this much-loved civic space, one of the city’s most significant works of architecture, and see it through the eyes of one of the engineers who worked on its restoration. John Hare, Managing Director of Holmes Group, has a passion for seismic engineering that came to the fore at the Christchurch Town Hall, which is also one of John’s career highlights. Learn about the original design, the damage caused by the earthquakes and the different design strategies used to repair and strengthen the building while respecting the original architecture.

John Hare

John Hare is a structural engineer and Managing Director of the Holmes Group of companies. He has worked in NZ, UK and the US, and is now based in Christchurch.

He has extensive experience in both the design of new structures and in the assessment and strengthening of existing buildings. Following the February 2011 Christchurch earthquake, John was seconded as Principal Engineering Adviser, firstly to Civil Defence and subsequently to the Canterbury Earthquakes Recovery Authority, whilst also acting as the President of SESOC. He has had extensive involvement with a number of Christchurch landmarks, including the Town Hall, Old Government Buildings, Arts Centre and the ChristChurch Cathedral.

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Saturday 6th May, 1:30pm
Bookings are essential

Important things to know for this tour

• This building is step-free
• However, the tour may enter the auditoriums which require steps to fully explore
• For more information regarding accessibility, feel free to contact us at openchch@teputahi.org.nz.
• Photography is permitted at this site

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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