Open Christchurch 2025

Open Christchurch is a one-weekend-only festival of exceptional architecture. It’s for everyone in Ōtautahi Christchurch and visitors to our city. Over the 3 and 4 May 2024 building owners/kaitiaki will literally open their doors so you can experience great design..

Uncover new spaces or get up close to the buildings you love. With over 50 buildings to choose from, you’ll discover your city in a new way.

Being the largest collection of heritage buildings in New Zealand, the Gothic Revival architectural style of Te Matatiki Toi Ora The Arts Centre will be on display as part of the festival.

Key buildings featuring include (click on each building for full details): 

• Clock Tower open Sat and Sun 10am to 4pm - open access 
• Great Hall open Sat and Sun 10am to 4pm - open access 
• Classics open Sat and Sun 10am to 4pm - open access 
• Observatory & Biological Laboratory (now The Observatory hotel) Sat and Sun 11am to 2pm - bookings essential. $5+BF
• Physics and Biology Extension (now The Observatory Hotel) Sat and Sun 11am to 2pm - bookings essential. $5+BF

Panel discussions

• Beyond Walls: The power of wharenui and Great Halls. A panel discussion that considers our most vital cultural spaces and architectural traditions. Friday 2 May 6-7.30pm. Koha entry. 

For full details and booking information click here.