About Cardboard Cathedral, Christchurch
When the February 2011 earthquake devastated Christchurch and wrecked its Victorian Anglican cathedral, the diocese needed a place to worship. Japanese architect Shigeru Ban, known for emergency shelters made of paper, designed the Transitional Cathedral, opened in 2013 on the site of the quake-damaged St John the Baptist church.
Its A-frame form is made of 98 large cardboard tubes coated against water and fire, set on a base of shipping containers. Coloured glass triangles in the front facade echo images from the rose window of the old cathedral. The building seats about seven hundred people and hosts services, concerts and civic gatherings, and it has become a symbol of resilience while the original cathedral is restored.
What to see
- Cardboard tube roof structure
- Triangular stained glass facade
- Shipping container side chapels
- Nearby 185 Empty White Chairs memorial
- Restoration of ChristChurch Cathedral in Cathedral Square
Visiting Cardboard Cathedral, Christchurch: practical guide
- Best time
- October to April
- Hours
- Usually open daily around 9:00 to 17:00; check service times
- Entry
- Free; donations welcome
- Dress code
- Respectful clothing during services
- Nearest airport
- Christchurch International Airport (CHC), 12 km
Tips from experienced pilgrims
- Visit the 185 Empty White Chairs memorial across the street
- Attend an evening concert for the acoustics
- Walk on to Cathedral Square to see the restoration work
Festivals and special days
- Christmas and Easter services
- Earthquake memorial on 22 February
Etiquette for visitors
Guidance drawn from Christianity tradition. Always follow signs and local custodians.
- Cover shoulders and knees when entering churches, cathedrals and monasteries.
- Men usually remove hats indoors, while some Orthodox churches ask women to cover their hair.
- Avoid sightseeing in the main aisle during Mass or services.
- Check whether photography and flash are allowed before taking pictures.
- Keep your voice low and switch phones to silent.
- Only receive Communion if you understand and follow that church's rules.
Location map
Open in OpenStreetMap · Get directions
Frequently asked questions
Where is Cardboard Cathedral, Christchurch?
Cardboard Cathedral, Christchurch is in Christchurch, Canterbury, New Zealand, Oceania. GPS coordinates: -43.5323, 172.6429. The nearest airport is Christchurch International Airport (CHC), 12 km.
What is the best time to visit Cardboard Cathedral, Christchurch?
October to April
Is there an entry fee for Cardboard Cathedral, Christchurch?
Free; donations welcome Opening hours: Usually open daily around 9:00 to 17:00; check service times
What should I wear when visiting Cardboard Cathedral, Christchurch?
Respectful clothing during services
Which religion is Cardboard Cathedral, Christchurch sacred to?
Cardboard Cathedral, Christchurch is sacred to Christianity. Active place of worship.
