Christchurch is generally regarded as having retained a larger proportion of heritage buildings than cities such as Auckland and Wellington. Arguably this is largely due to it being less affected by development pressures. However, you may be surprised at the losses that the City's building stock has incurred over the last 10 years, as listed below.
The history of lost buildings is a fascinating one, highlighting the importance of protecting our city's buildings, places and features for future generations to enjoy.
In 1984, historian John Wilson wrote the book Lost Christchurch which documented Christchurch buildings lost to demolition over time. The book also raised awareness of the damage that unsympathetic alterations can cause to buildings, and brought attention to buildings at risk of demolition at the time.
Two decades on there have been further changes in the city with more losses, but also the introduction of heritage provisions in the City Plan, an increase in public awareness about heritage issues, and a significant number of 'saved' buildings which are still standing.
