Christchurch architecture festival offers array of diverse experiences

The Christchurch annual architecture festival ‘Open Christchurch’ will run from 3rd-5th May with a programme celebrating the diverse range of architectural experiences on offer in Ōtautahi.

The festival presented by Te Pūtahi invites attendees to get behind closed doors, to explore new spaces and to discover parts of the city they might not otherwise.

The festival commences with a Friday night lecture from Professor Albert L. Refit, ‘Roots and Routes of Pacific Architecture,’ which explores the movements and legacy of this architecture in the Pacific, Aotearoa and Ōtautahi. This free, bookable event takes place in a building that embodies the theme, Te Puna Wanāka at Ara.

For those wishing to explore further Pacific influences, visit the award-winning Fonua Mana Tongan Church on Saturday 4th May. Architectural vitality, colour, texture and atmosphere come together in this energised worship space. Bull & O'Sullivan Architects are leading a free, bookable architecture tour at 1pm for those wanting to learn more.

Over on Fitzgerald Avenue, St Paul’s Trinity Pacific Presbyterian Church is opening on Saturday for people to explore this minimalist gem, hidden in plain sight.

Spaces for youth are also celebrated in this year’s programme, as people of all ages deserve good design.

Te Hohepa Kōhanga Reo is open for attendees to experience this beautifully crafted building that elegantly accommodates the size of its users through built-in, small scale details.

Te Raekura Redcliffs School is also open to explore this contemporary facility, which captures the cultural history and coastal context of Redcliffs, on Sunday 5th May 10am-2pm.

Those who wish to learn how the design captures Māori history and traditional pathways while addressing its coastal location can book in for a free architecture tour at either 10.30am or 11.30am.

Another family friendly spot is Washington Reserve Skatepark. One of Christchurch’s best-used parks will be in full swing on Saturday 4th May, 11am-1.30pm, at A Creative Skate.

There will be exhibitions from all levels of skaters, mini-challenges for local skaters and the public, a big bowl competition, music, stories about its history, and stations for decorating and repairing your board.

For those wanting to find out about the design and use of the skatepark, book in for a free talk and tour at 11.30am.

Finally, hear what young folk have to say about the city’s architecture at the quick-fire celebration of words and the city, New Foundations. On Sunday at 3pm, a group of young storytellers share their reflections on one of their favourite buildings or spaces in Ōtautahi Christchurch and imagine another.

Open Christchurch features 50 buildings for the public to explore over the weekend, for free (apart from a handful of limited entry buildings and guided walks, which are $5 + booking fees).

A public programme of 40+ activities - free talks, tours and exhibitions - allows visitors to find out more.

For the full programme, timetable of activities, accessibility information and bookings visit openchch.nz.

Image above: Washington Skate Park (Phase 1, 1998; Convic, 2014). Credit: Dennis Radermacher.