CHRISTCHURCH
CENTRAL
ARTS & CULTURE
Christchurch's central city is a vibrant hub of heritage and culture, offering visitors a unique blend of historic charm
and contemporary creativity.
From its stunning Gothic Revival architecture to its thriving arts scene, the city celebrates its rich history while embracing the future. With a diverse range of museums, galleries, and cultural landmarks, Christchurch invites you to explore its fascinating past and dynamic present, making it the perfect destination for those seeking both heritage
and modern-day inspiration.
CANTERBURY MUSEUM
Established in 1867, the Canterbury Museum stands as a key destination for history and culture enthusiasts in Christchurch. Situated in the city's heart, this iconic Gothic Revival building showcases extensive exhibits on natural history, Māori heritage, and New Zealand’s colonial past.
Now, the Museum is rewriting its own story by embarking on an exciting new journey of redevelopment, and the Rolleston Avenue site is closed, but you can continue to explore the collections and be part of the amazing redevelopment journey that lies ahead.
CHRISTCHURCH ART GALLERY
Christchurch Art Gallery Te Puna o Waiwhetū is a catalyst for ambitious creativity in Ōtautahi Christchurch, collaborating with artists, and extending the Gallery’s influence beyond its walls.
The Christchurch Art Gallery Te Puna o Waiwhetū, commonly known as the Christchurch Art Gallery, is the public art gallery of the city of Christchurch, New Zealand. It has its own substantial art collection and also presents a programme of New Zealand and international exhibitions.
THE ARTS CENTRE
Te Matatiki Toi Ora
The Arts Centre Te Matatiki Toi Ora is a unique collection of Gothic Revival buildings that was originally part of the University of Canterbury.
After being damaged in the 2011 earthquakes, the complex underwent a major restoration, reopening as a vibrant cultural center featuring artisan shops, galleries, studios, and cafes.
THE COURT THEATRE
The new building, on the corner of Colombo and Gloucester streets, promises a theatre experience unlike any other in New Zealand. Athfield Architects and UK-based architects Haworth Tompkins designed the building. Hawkins leads the construction.
It comprises two theatres. The 377-seat Stewart Family Theatre has three levels of seating around the stage. The seating can be removed, giving flexibility to adjust the stage position for different types of performances. A smaller auditorium, seating 120 to 150, will be used for performances such as children’s theatre and improvised comedy.
THE PIANO
The Piano is a space devoted to music and the arts.
The design of the building is inspired by the curves of a grand piano, the copper building is home to the Concert Hall and Atrium, and the rest of the building houses the Civic Music and Arts facility and office spaces. The building is built to the latest standards, with high-level control of acoustics and temperature to guarantee a perfect concert experience.
CHRISTCHURCH TOWN HALL
The restored Christchurch Town Hall has returned to a premier performance and civic venue after reopening in 2019.
The purpose-built facility for the Christchurch Symphony Orchestra (CSO), the CSO Centre, opened in August 2019. The CSO Centre has replaced the Town Hall’s damaged Cambridge block, which was demolished as part of the restoration project.
COCA GALLERY
The Centre of Contemporary Art Toi Moroki (CoCA) is a leading art gallery in Ōtautahi Christchurch, governed by the Canterbury Society of Arts Charitable Trust.
The gallery has a rich history of supporting the development of arts practitioners and serving the community since its establishment over 140 years ago.
STREET ART
Christchurch has now became a world street art capital. A Lonely Planet book published in 2017 ranked Christchurch alongside New York, Barcelona, Berlin and London as one of 39 cities with a rich street art scene.
A stroll through the inner city reveals colourful artworks from a range of inspiring artists.