OPEN CHRISTCHURCH 2025: Canterbury Provincial Council Buildings

Architect: Benjamin Mountfort, 1858-65
Where: 280 Durham Street North, Christchurch Central City (Meeting point provided to ticket holders)

Get behind the fences on a guided tour of one of our most important Gothic Revival works, which has been mothballed since the earthquakes. Take a close look at the sole extant example of a purpose built provincial government complex in the country. You must be 12+ to attend. PPE provided. $5 + BFs.

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Saturday 3 May: 10 & 11am, 12 & 1pm

This building is also open on the 4th of May.

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.

Bookings are essential

Important things to know when visiting Canterbury Provincial Council Buildings

Age restricted: only accessible to those 12 and over. Proof of age may be required.
This site is not suited to visitors with mobility needs, use wheelchairs or other mobility aids, or who are unstable on their feet
Tour/site involves steps
Uneven ground
No seating on site
Flat, closed toed shoes suitable for walking are required
Construction site, may be inaccessible to some visitors
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:

2-4 May 2025

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 5 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

Contact the host of Open Christchurch 2025: Canterbury Provincial Council Buildings - Saturday