ChristChurch Cathedral

ChristChurch Cathedral Review

Sadly the cathedral, the city's dominating landmark, was very badly damaged in the earthquakes. Currently inside the cordon and inaccessible, plans are already afoot for its rebuild. The original building started in 1864, 14 years after the arrival of the Canterbury Pilgrims, was dedicated in 1881 and completed in 1904. Carvings inside commemorated the work of the Anglican missionaries, including Tamihana Te Rauparaha, the son of a fierce and, for the settlers, troublesome Maori chief. During the September 2010 and February 2011 quakes the cathedral lost its spire, west wall and most of the interior. Its famous Rose stained glass window fell in the June 2011 aftershocks. Unbowed, the revered Cathedral choir now sings at various venues around the city and mission work continues in the suburban parishes. Cantabrians are right behind the rebuilding of its spiritual heart as soon as work becomes possible. Cathedral Square, the city's focal point, buzzed with cafes and shops, an arts-and-crafts market complete with food stalls and street musicians, the city's information centre, hotels and the tramway. Work on the rebuilding of this iconic area will happen over time.