Open Christchurch 2023 has grown in size from last year, with 50 buildings opening up on 6 and 7 May. This rich array of offerings, available for viewing for one weekend only, makes for tough pickings. So, I am here to tell you what I’m hoping to see in this slim window of time.

The Evangelistic Church, now South City C3

I’m honoured to be part of opening the Evangelistic Church, now South City C3, by co-leading an architecture tour through this Modernist work. On the tour, we will share details of the volunteer-driven construction and the features designed by a young Don Donnithorne. As well as a magnificent auditorium space, the church holds many fascinating stories behind its multiple ancillary spaces, including a rumoured tunnel. The thriving community it houses today attests to the building’s design and work by previous generations.

Open access, Sat 6 May: 10am–3pm. Free tours at 10.30am and 1pm, turn up on the day.

Te Ora Hou Ōtautahi

I love seeing how buildings can serve the community, and Te Ora Hou Ōtautahi is the epitome of just that – and on a limited budget. Field Studio of Architecture has delivered a complex for a kaupapa Māori youth organisation, including outdoor spaces and a gathering area that delights in the history and mahi of the group. Be sure to take in the work by Ngāi Tahu artists that adorns various architectural elements.

Open access, Sat 6 & Sun 7: 10-am–12pm. Free tours, turn up on the day. 

Lyttelton Studio Monastery

See how Bull O’Sullivan uses simple materials to transform small floor areas into a spectacular studio, living space and, most recently, an intimate library. The Lyttelton Studio Monastery is an insight into this great architecture firm and their work, and the views across the harbour will reward the effort of your walk up to this gem on the coast. If you’re hungry for more sea views, Open Chch’s programme will not disappoint, with Mt Pleasant Community Centre and a selection of buildings open in Greater Brighton celebrating the city’s coastal identity through architecture.

Lyttelton Studio is open access, Sun 7 May: 9am–1pm. 

Schneideman House

Warren & Mahoney’s Schneideman House is a chance to experience a Christchurch Modern dwelling. Although modest in size (when compared to today’s homes), its grace is achieved through Warren & Mahoney’s renowned clarity of planning and simple material palette. Intriguingly, three separate pavilions cater to services, living and sleeping. I’m keen to see how these are set in the landscape and how the spaces do (or don’t) suit living today.

Bookings essential, see openchch.nz.

Transforming the campus of a te tiriti-based university tour

With so many noteworthy buildings on the University of Canterbury (UC) Campus, it is hard to choose just one to explore. This is why a tour with Corban Te Aika (Ngāi Tahu) to discover more about the cultural narrative being woven through the campus buildings is worthy of attendance.

Bookings essential, see openchch.nz.

Peterborough Housing Cooperative

See how a group of people live, and thrive, in one of the city’s only functioning co-housing developments on a tour with its residents. This unique way of living provides a fascinating glimpse into future housing scenarios with both private and shared areas on one site.

Bookings essential, see openchch.nz.