Ōtautahi Christchurch
A City Reimagined
Ōtautahi Christchurch is Aotearoa’s newest city. A place reimagined, where you’ll find charming heritage buildings alongside modern new architecture.
Exciting city projects such as new precincts, cultural hubs and public facilities have revitalised Christchurch, with innovative urban planning reshaping Christchurch's landscape. Here are a few highlights:
Te Papa Ōtākaro, Avon River Precinct
One of the city’s central gems and most loved and utilised areas, Te Papa Ōtākaro is New Zealand’s largest ever urban renewal programme. The area stretches alongside the Avon River from the Hospital to Fitzgerald Avenue, boasting an array of attractions, including the beloved Margaret Mahy Family Playground, City Promenade and the Avon Loop.
The improvement work for the precinct stemmed from a public desire for the Avon River and its surrounds to be highlighted as a feature of the city centre. The incorporation of nature into the central city builds on Christchurch’s special connection to nature. The $120m project included the conversion of Oxford Terrace on the sunny, city side of the street into a promenade, now fondly known as The Terrace, the restoration of Victoria Square, the Margaret Mahy Family Playground, and improved access to the river.
Te Pae Christchurch Convention Centre
Designed to be Ōtautahi’s ‘gathering place’ Te Pae is not only a world class conference and events centre but also a striking work of art located in the central city.
Those who have seen the venue up close will understand the ‘wow factor’ of the architecture. The is inspired by the natural beauty of our mountains, rivers and lands, as well as the unique culture of the Canterbury region. The exterior reflects the jagged outline of the Southern Alps featuring 43,000 herringbone tiles, designed to evoke Canterbury’s braided rivers. The interior reflects our city and community’s diverse culture, history and values.
Te Pae has the capacity to host 2000 people or multiple smaller events, has a 1400-seat auditorium, expansive exhibition hall and 24 meeting rooms. It was the government’s largest contribution to the regeneration of central Christchurch.
Tūranga Central Library
Tūranga is the largest public library in the South Island and the flagship for the Christchurch City Libraries network. It is also a seriously impressive building with striking architecture, thoughtful design and state-of-the-art amenities. From the stunning exterior to the range of activities and resources it offers, this is much more than your typical library!
The inspiration for the design was derived mainly from the warm colours and rolling shadows of the Port Hills and the angular fronds of the native Harakeke flax that once grew in the wetlands of Christchurch. The modern library sits close to Te Pae on the edge of Cathedral Square, bringing a unique blend of old meets new to the area.
