The demolition of one of central Christchurch’s most recognisable historic buildings got underway on Saturday night.

Harley Chambers stood on the prominent corner of Cambridge Terrace and Worcester Boulevard for almost a century.

The three storey building was constructed in 1929 and extended in 1934. Designed by Christchurch architect G T Lucas, it was purpose built as professional rooms for doctors and dentists.

The building was recognised by Heritage New Zealand as a Category 2 historic place because of its architectural, social and technological significance.

It was praised at the time of construction for an innovative heating and ventilation system, along with an electrical installation described as the first of its kind in New Zealand.

Harley Chambers was badly damaged during the Canterbury earthquakes and remained vacant as its condition continued to deteriorate.

In December 2024, an independent commissioner approved resource consent allowing Cambridge 137 Limited to demolish the building and construct a 42 metre hotel on the site.

The approved proposal includes 200 hotel rooms across 11 floors, along with a restaurant, reception area, fitness centre and vehicle loading area.

However, the development was subsequently placed on the market as its owners sought a purchaser, lessee or hotel management agreement.

The property remains advertised by Bayleys⁠, and no confirmed hotel operator or construction starting date has been publicly announced.

The demolition removes another prominent piece of Christchurch’s architectural history nearly 15 years after the February 2011 earthquake.