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Canterbury Provincial Council Buildings are the only provincial government buildings, designed and constructed to serve a particular purpose, still in existence in New Zealand. It is due to the historical significance and majestic beauty that these buildings, are treasured by the city. Canterbury Provincial Council Buildings are located in easy walking distance from the centre of Christchurch.
Features of Canterbury Provincial Council Buildings
- The Provincial Council Buildings (1858–1865) were designed by Benjamin Mountfort, Canterbury’s leading Gothic Revival architect.
- The architectural pattern of the buildings borrows a lot from the ancient Europe, the use of local stone and timbers make the structure unique in its own way.
- The great architectural and historical significance has given the buildings the status of New Zealand Historic places Trust's highest classification.
- They are also listed as being worthy of preservation in the Christchurch City Council's district planning scheme.
- The buildings are located beside the meandering River Avon, bearing imprints of Christchurch’s early European settlement.
- The Maoris, too, consider it as an important site.
- In earlier times, through three successive phases of Maori settlement, the area was a bustling one due to the availability of water.
- The Maoris set up camps here while they gathered seasonal food.
- There is now an Interpretation Centre inside the building which is a wonderful place to know their history in detail.
- Through the use of fascinating photographs, historical items, recorded speeches of the day and a video, a rich range of materials presents the entire story of the buildings.
- The chambers of the buildings are open to the public from Monday to Saturday from 10.30 a.m. to 3.00 p.m.
- You can go on one of those guided tours which are available.
- The chambers are open to be hired for special occasions
- Two rooms are available for hire at the Provincial buildings, the Timber Chamber and the Stone Chamber.
- Special conditions apply during the time of hiring due to the historic significance of the buildings.
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