π Christchurch Central City, Christchurch 8013, New Zealand
π Address: Christchurch Central City, Christchurch 8013, New Zealand
π Phone: +64 3 366 0989
π Website: artscentre.org.nz
There are many installation art pieces, and everyone is welcome to interact with them. These works bring art into everyday life.
Beautiful works in a beautiful building. Even the drain pipes are beautiful.
One of the oldest buildings of Canterbury College which subsequently became the prestigious Canterbury University. The University is now centered in its modern campus to the West of the centre of the city and, after extensive renovation following the Christchurch Earthquake in 2011 this building has become an Arts Centre. The Centre also houses an up-market wine bar/restaurant but the must-see is the spectacular stained glass window in the main hall.
A beautiful must-see attraction in Christchurch, featuring history exhibits, arts and crafts shops, and even a hotel. Since major earthquakes in late 2010/early 2011, The Arts Centre has undergone major restoration works. This is a major undertaking and has yet to be completed, with remaining works on the cathedral put on hold due to funding shortages. There is an exhibit which showcases the meticulous and momentous planning and construction work to effectively build a "new" steel and concrete structure under the existing brick facade. I've been told the work rivals that of the restoration of the Notre Dame, and I agree - you can see where the centre has been strengthened to be safe to modern standards, but also where individual components have been reconstructed by hand to remain faithful to the original style.
We stumbled upon the Arts Centre by accident after finding the Quad cafΓ©, and it turned out to be one of the best surprises of our trip! The cafΓ© drew us in, but the Arts Centre kept us exploring for hours. The place is full of hidden treasures. We wandered through the Central Gallery, checked out Rutherfordβs Den science center, and browsed the gift shop, which was packed with quirky, creative finds. Thereβs even a cinema, though we didnβt have time to catch a film. Plus, the Buskers Festival was happening, so the whole area was buzzing with street performers. There were also public art installationsβthink sculptures and creative outdoor displays that made the space feel vibrant and alive. We also saw the Teece Museum of Classical Antiquities- small but had significant artifacts. The buildings themselves are absolutely stunningβclassic Gothic architecture that feels like a mix of Harry Potter and Edinburgh. Everything is so well-preserved, and just walking around was a treat. Sadly, we missed the Great Hall because it was closed for rehearsals, but that just gives us a reason to go back. And the best part? Itβs completely free to visit! Whether youβre into art, history, or just want to soak up the atmosphere, the Arts Centre is a total must-see.
Love the place, roughly can take 1-1.5 hrs to wander around.
Cool building style. The whole environment was full of art atmosphere.
Interesting exhibits and shops in several of the buildings. The stories of the quake and renovation process are very interesting. Fun places to wander around and good cafe options as well.
Beautiful stunning venue, we held our wedding here and loved every moment. Staff were friendly, easy to coordinate with and very helpful.
The Arts Centre is located at Christchurch Central City, Christchurch 8013, New Zealand
You can contact The Arts Centre at +64 3 366 0989
You can find directions to The Arts Centre by following this map link
468 Mandeville Road, Ohoka 7692, New Zealand
617 Colombo Street, Christchurch Central City, Christchurch 8011, New Zealand
49 Staveley Street, Avonhead, Christchurch 8042, New Zealand
10 Wycola Avenue, Hei Hei, Christchurch 8042, New Zealand
146 Hawthornden Road, Avonhead, Christchurch 8042, New Zealand
1A Campbell Lane, Oxford 7430, New Zealand