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The Arts Centre

Christchurch, New Zealand

The Arts Centre

The Christchurch Arts Centre, also known as The Arts Centre Te Matatiki Toi Ora, is a hub for arts, culture, education, creativity and entrepreneurship in Christchurch, New Zealand. It is located in the Gothic Revival former Canterbury College (now the University of Canterbury), Christchurch Boys' H

igh School and Christchurch Girls' High School buildings, many of which were designed by Benjamin Mountfort. The centre is New Zealand's largest collection of category one heritage buildings with 21 of the 23 buildings covered by Heritage New Zealand listings. The Arts Centre of Christchurch Trust Board formed in 1978 and ownership of the site was transferred to the trust from the University of Canterbury to the Christchurch Arts Centre in 1979. The centre, which is held in trust for the people of Canterbury and its visitors, has been undergoing a large restoration since it was badly damaged in the 2011 Christchurch earthquake. Buildings are progressively reopening to the public as they are strengthened and repaired and more than two-thirds of the buildings have reopened.

Listen to the audio guide for The Arts Centre Free on WIP — starts by itself when you arrive, even with the screen off

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