Having been involved in the beginnings of Open Christchurch, it’s exciting to see its growth in popularity. Here are my pickings of what is on offer for 2025:

The Court Theatre

The first thing I booked when I got home from the launch event was an architecture tour of the Court Theatre. I’m really interested in the theatre building typology (having worked on a few), and it’s great to be able to see back of house areas that you don’t experience from the audience. This is an interesting timber construction and a milestone opening for post-quake Christchurch.

Open access – just turn up on Sunday 4 May, 11 am-3 pm.

Learn more: While the free architecture tours are booked out, you can learn more about the project at the free, bookable talk, The Design of the Court Theatre on Saturday 3 May, 2-3pm, featuring Athfield Architects and the Court Theatre.

The Former Municipal Building

The Former Municipal Building is another post-quake milestone. I’ve been watching this building from my studio window for the last five years. It was exciting to see the flapping plastic wrap removed to reveal the revived historic façade — with its decorative terracotta tiles and sculptures — and I’m now interested to see how this Samuel Hurst Seager design has been refurbished internally by Three Sixty Architecture. Enjoy more access at Open Christchurch than the public has had since the quakes.

Open access – just turn up on Saturday 3 May, 10 am-3 pm.

Learn more: Te Pūtahi have put together a self-guided tour, so you can explore at your own pace. Simply scan the QR code on the poster at the building or visit openchch.nz.

College House (University Canterbury hall of residence)

Arguably Sir Miles Warren and Maurice Mahoney’s finest work — certainly the one that Miles thought was their best. Everyone should visit this masterpiece where the Oxbridge tradition of halls and quads meet modernist materials, while an accomplished layout creates community. Do not miss the stunning chapel and make sure you take in the fabulous art collection. Students living in the halls host you on the guided tours.

Bookings essential, $5 + booking fees.

Saturday 3 and Sunday 4 May, 10 & 11 am, 12, 1 & 2 pm.

Book a Saturday tour.

Book a Sunday tour.

 Korako Whānau Papakāinga

The kaupapa Māori concept of living is an interesting alternative to the single family home in a beautiful location. I’ve admired the dwellings and their connection to whenua while visiting Rāpaki Marae and I’m keen to see more of the work of Perry Royal, one of Ōtautahi most experienced Māori architects.

The papakāinga is booked out, sorry — but do visit the tiny but treasured Rāpaki Church, and recently refurbished Rāpaki School. Whānau are hosting free, bookable talks at both these locations.

Rāpaki church talk Sunday 4 May, 11 am & 1 pm.

Rāpaki school talk Sunday 4 May, 11.45 am & 1.45 pm.

Tūranga

Whether you join the Women in the City architecture tour, bring your tamariki along for the many kids’ activities on offer, or visit the Mountfort and Canterbury Museum exhibition, Tūranga has something for everyone. This is such a great facility: passionate staff in an award-winning building that’s a real asset to Ōtautahi. You can learn more about the architecture and the stories behind it on audio-guided tours. Visit openchch.nz.

Open access – just turn up.

Saturday 3 and Sunday 4 May, 10am - 5pm.

Learn more with free activities for the whānau: pick up a Monster Architecture Hunt at the Open Christchurch Info Desk on the ground floor and explore architectural treasures; drop in for Artful gothic: Colours, shapes and design at 10 am on Saturday or Get hands-on with engineering at 11 am or 1 pm; check out the exhibition Mountfort and the Canterbury Museum, open both days.