A new staged plan has been unveiled to reopen Christ Church Cathedral, with hopes the landmark could welcome the public again by the end of 2030.
Christ Church Cathedral Reinstatement Ltd (CCRL) announced the revised approach after a funding shortfall of up to $95 million stalled progress last year and forced a pause on construction.
CCRL Director Mark Stewart said the project had made significant headway since then.
“It’s been a busy time. We’ve reviewed and costed a range of options to make the reinstatement achievable. The conclusion has been to undertake the work in stages. We have developed a plan that will see the first stage deliver a re-opened Cathedral and the removal of hoardings from the Square to enable its revitalisation,” Stewart said.
The first stage will see the reinstatement of the tower, nave and western wall, including the Rose Window. This will provide seating for up to 700 people, echoing the areas first opened to the public in 1881.
Stewart said reopening the Cathedral was vital for the city’s growth.
“Christchurch’s central city is thriving and while its revitalisation is often lauded, the Cathedral is an obstacle to further progress. Until there is a resolution, the private sector will remain reluctant to unlock investment in the properties around the Square fully.”
The staged plan halves the funding shortfall to between $40 and $45 million. Construction is expected to begin next year.
Dean Ben Truman said the Anglican Church leadership had committed a further $20 million to ensure the project moves forward.
“We want to make this happen. The Cathedral, with its tower and Square, was always the hub of our city as well as a major tourist attraction. It has a rich history and an even richer future – a reopened Christ Church Cathedral will be, as it was before, a place that welcomes everyone and hosts important events for the city,” Truman said.
Business leaders have also voiced their support. Ben Bridge, of Mainland Capital, which is redeveloping the former Noah’s Hotel with Russell Property Group, said certainty over the Cathedral would unlock new investment.
“Cathedral Square is the last piece of the puzzle in terms of the rebuild of the CBD. Providing certainty with respect to the Cathedral will give the investment community confidence to develop the area around it fully. It will unlock substantial private sector investment that will bring Cathedral Square to life – just as Riverside, Little High, The Crossing, The Terrace, and other developments have delivered,” Bridge said.
Stewart said the project represented a defining moment for Christchurch.
“This is about ensuring Christchurch’s post-quake revitalisation continues. It’s about ensuring Cathedral Square and the properties around it are brought back to life, providing a capstone to the earthquake era for this and future generations. The Cathedral is a part of our city. People are united on the need for progress, so it’s time to come together and make it happen.”
