Iconic investment
A world-class Canterbury Museum is one step closer to opening thanks to new financial support from Christchurch City Council, following annual plan investment decisions in Ōtautahi’s ‘iconic’ buildings.
Christchurch city councillors voted in late May to provide additional funding for the museum’s lengthy redevelopment with a $15 million grant and a $28.6 million loan, to be repaid through an entry fee for international visitors. “The Council’s proposal reflects a practical and considered funding approach, including the proposed use of an international visitor entry charge. Visitor contributions are common in museums nationally and internationally, and this approach will support the long-term sustainability of the Museum,” says Canterbury Museum Tumuaki Tuarua deputy director Sarah Murray. “Our focus now is on continuing to work constructively with our partners, including central Government, to develop the remaining components of the funding package and ensure the project can be delivered as planned.”
A further $15 million was allocated for the Christ Church Cathedral’s rebuild, but both are contingent on the Government also contributing $15 million to each. “We think we’ve found a pragmatic approach that lets us tackle a $300 million problem for $30 million. This is the direction we want staff to head in as they iron out the details,” says finance and performance committee chair Sam MacDonald.
“We have enough from the public to let us do the job we were elected to do – make the hard decisions – and set out our approach to restoring some of Christchurch’s earthquake-damaged heritage buildings,” Sam says. “We have a forecast cash operating surplus of $44.4 million this year, so we’re in a unique position to show leadership on some of these long-standing opportunities for the city. Another $1.8 million from the surplus would complete the collection of the Christ Church Cathedral targeted rate. Christchurch School of Music will get $4 million, provided it can match the funding and provide a clear pathway to completion.
Councillors will meet again on Tuesday, 23 June to consider and adopt the final Annual Plan 2026/27.
