Blend of old and new in Christchurch awards mix

Christchurch’s landmark central library, Tūranga, and a heritage homestead in Opawa have won accolades from the Christchurch Civic Trust.

The “design and functionality” of Tūranga, along with the Christchurch City Council’s role in the reinstatement of a major facility in the city, have been recognised, while the “excellent restoration and refurbishment” of a special community house, Risingholme, have also been praised.

Council Central Library Manager Chris Hay says it is an honour to receive the Civic Trust award.

The design of Tūranga has been recognised at the Civic Trust Awards.

“It was wonderful to see the realisation of the ideas and dreams of the people of Christchurch for their new central library,” Mr Hay says.

“It’s a drawcard, bringing people back into the central city and activating the surrounding area.

“We’re confident that we will build on this success, and the community will continue to use and appreciate this wonderful resource – and the opportunities it provides – for years to come.”

Three other major Council projects – the restoration of Risingholme Homestead and the Nurses’ Memorial Chapel and the new Woolston Community Library – have been recognised by the Civic Trust.

Along with praising the work on Risingholme, it has acknowledged the quality of the chapel repairs and the design and reinstatement of the community library.

The only chapel in the world to honour nurses killed during 20th century wars reopened last year after complex restoration work while the 1871 library was lost during the 2010-11 earthquakes.

Council Capital Delivery Community Manger Darren Moses says the public recognition of several of the city’s rebuild and restoration projects reinforces their importance to Christchurch.

“These awards further recognise the Council’s commitment to a city that weaves the old with the new, restoring special places and delivering innovative new spaces,” he says.

“The 155-year-old Risingholme Homestead reopened in June after suffering damage in an arson attack in 2016, just as the Council was preparing for earthquake-related repairs.

“The Council-led repair and restoration project has saved Risingholme, fully returning the historic homestead to its former glory and strengthening the building.

“At the heart of all of these rebuild and restoration projects is our vision for a stronger, more connected community.

“These awards and commendations highlight the success of the city’s regeneration.”

The Civic Trust promotes heritage preservation and positive redevelopment, annually recognising projects that help revitalise the city.