A free archaeology exhibition inside Christ Church Cathedral was fully booked ahead of its opening, underscoring strong public interest in exploring the history of Cathedral Square.

The Cathedral Square Unearthed exhibition is scheduled to run from 16 February to 22 through one hour guided tours, with each session limited to 50 visitors.

Organisers said demand exceeded capacity, with all sessions booked and a waitlist operating.

Christchurch Archaeology Project chair Katharine Watson said the response showed a strong desire from Christchurch residents to reconnect with the Cathedral and engage with archaeological discoveries uncovered beneath Cathedral Square.

Watson said the level of interest prompted organisers to secure an additional venue to allow more people to experience the exhibition.

She said the exhibition would be re mounted at The Crossing from 24 February to 22 March, providing a more accessible setting for visitors who were unable to attend the Cathedral venue.

Dean of Christchurch Very Reverend Ben Truman said the exhibition offered another opportunity for the public to enjoy the Cathedral space while reinstatement work continued.

Truman said bringing people together and sharing stories was central to the Cathedral’s mission, and the exhibition helped tell more of the city’s lived history through the building itself.

Health and safety requirements at Christ Church Cathedral restricted entry for visitors under the age of 10 and for those with limited mobility. Organisers said the additional exhibition period at The Crossing would allow broader access to the exhibition.

The Christ Church Cathedral reinstatement team said it would also run an open weekend on 13 March, 14 March and 15 March, alongside Cathedral Square Unearthed walking tours. Further details were expected to be released closer to the dates.