Open Christchurch
With 50 open buildings, 4 guided walks, 3 landscapes, 3 special events and over 40 activities (from expert talks and tours to workshops), Open Christchurch 2024 is a celebration of the city’s architecture.
Two of our buildings feature in the 2024 programme: our 160-year-old heritage listed homestead, and our hall (a Pascoe & Hall design) which has been left almost untouched since being built in 1947.
Join us for a weekend of celebrating exceptional architecture around Ōtautahi and discover how buildings– and the stories they can tell– create a sense of place and belonging in our city.
Risingholme Homestead
Named after the rise it was built upon, Risingholme was the home of several prominent Christchurch families from 1864 until 1943 when it was gifted to the people of Christchurch. Built in a carpenter gothic style, with additions and restorations being made throughout its 160-year history, the building retains much of its charm and character. It sits within a heritage park and is a peaceful setting where people can come together to connect and learn.
We will be running guided tours of the homestead on 4 May, 10am-4pm. Click here to learn more.
Risingholme Hall
Step back in time to the early post-war period and experience a Modernist building achieved through timber construction techniques. Basically, untouched since its construction in 1947, this Pascoe & Hall building has a long history as a community hall for performing arts and associated activities, including as the birthplace of the Court Theatre.
Chat with expert Robyn Peers, architectural historian, who will be on site 10am-2pm, and explore the hall’s history through a specially designed panel display for the event. Click here to learn more.