Experience Christchurch Cathedral New Zealand
A Symbolic Center of Christchurch Since 1864

A nationally and internationally acknowledged symbol of Christchurch, Christchurch Cathedral is engaging with the issues of the world. It ministers to and welcomes over 700,000 people of all faiths each year.

Because the city was built as an Anglican settlement and founders wanted a church at it’s heart, the city is built around the cathedral, and it’s spire once dominated the skyline. The cathedral is based on the English model of Christ Church, Oxford, but was conceived and crafted to belong in New Zealand. The first foundation stone was laid in 1864, shortly after the first English settler ships arrived. It was not until 1881 that the nave was completed. It was another 23 years until the rest of the cathedral was completed in 1904.

It is the most visited church in New Zealand and is viewed as an iconic representation of Christchurch city. As you can see it is truly a magnificent piece of architecture and well worth viewing in person on your New Zealand vacation.

When the Centre was opened by Queen Elizabeth II in 1995, there was such a demand by visitors who wanted to send home souvenirs that a very small, unobtrusive store was opened which contains a varied collection of postcards, books, clothing and New Zealand gifts. The proceeds of these sales go towards supporting Christchurch Cathedral New Zealand.

There is also a cafe which is open from breakfast to afternoon seven days a week. Guided tours are available by Monday through Saturday. Knowledgeable guides will introduce and explain the history of this fine example of an English Victorian Gothic Cathedral.

You are invited to create a brass rubbing as a unique memento of your outing. Visitors can climb the 134 steps of the Cathedral Tower to see the amazing views of central city and Port Hills. The tower itself is 36 metres high and the spire an additional 27 metres, so the cross at the top is 63 metres from the ground.

We really enjoyed the tour because it introduced us to the history and culture of the people. You can find the Cathedral Visitors’ Centre on the northern side of the building.

The Cathedral Columbarium was built in the tradition of other European cathedrals. It is located on the south lawn and as a hallowed, secure repository for ashes and names of the departed. The stone columbarium can house up to 700 urns with names displayed on a bronze plaque. Names and any other information, you would like recorded, are entered in the Columbarium Register, which is kept in the Cathedral itself.