Events

Various locations across Christchurch: 52 open buildings, 4 guided walks, 1 weekend.

Discover Christchurch through architecture.

Open Christchurch is a one-weekend-only festival of exceptional architecture. It’s for everyone in Ōtautahi Christchurch.

On Saturday 6 May and Sunday 7 May, building owners/kaitiaki of over 50 of Christchurch’s best buildings will throw open their doors so you can experience great design, from the inside, for free. (A handful of bookings-only private residences and guided walks will incur $5 plus booking fee).

This year’s festival will celebrate the work of Sir Miles Warren and Maurice Mahoney, take a closer look at the city’s coastal identity through its architecture and explore educational architecture over the span of 159 years, in addition to a range of heritage treasures, returning favourites and one-off experiences.

With behind-the-scenes access and unique experiences on offer, this is a chance to connect with Christchurch’s story as you uncover its special places.

There are free, bookable activities on offer also, so that you can delve a little deeper into these spaces: expert talks, children’s workshops, behind-the-scenes tours and exhibitions.

Encounter new spaces or get up close to the buildings you love. You’ll discover your city in a new way.