Westpac Canterbury Centre

Westpac Canterbury Centre Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Christchurch Historical Sites Guide

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

The Westpac Canterbury Centre once stood as an architectural icon and financial hub in Christchurch, New Zealand. Constructed in 1983, this modernist 14-storey tower at 166 Cashel Street was a testament to the city’s economic optimism and innovative design, featuring unique rounded concrete pillars, a triangular roof, and a hexagonal footprint. Designed by Warren and Mahoney for the Canterbury Savings Bank (later Trust Bank and Westpac), it quickly became a fixture of the city’s skyline and commercial core, symbolizing Christchurch’s urban identity (Westpac Canterbury Centre: History, Architecture, and Visiting Information in Christchurch).

The devastating Canterbury earthquakes of 2010 and 2011 caused irreparable damage to the building, resulting in its demolition in 2012. The former site now anchors The Crossing retail complex and ASB House, reflecting Christchurch’s ongoing urban renewal and commitment to earthquake resilience (Visiting the Former Westpac Canterbury Centre Site: Hours, History & Christchurch Urban Renewal). While the original structure is gone, the site remains a focal point for visitors interested in the city’s seismic heritage, architectural evolution, and vibrant regeneration.

This comprehensive guide explores the historical significance, architectural features, and earthquake legacy of the Westpac Canterbury Centre. It also provides practical information for exploring the site and its surroundings, including visiting hours, nearby attractions, travel tips, accessibility, and recommendations for guided tours and photographic spots.

Historical Overview and Architectural Significance
Early Development and Urban Context
Architectural Design and Features
Role in Christchurch’s Urban Identity
Earthquake Impact and Structural Legacy
Visiting Information for the Westpac Canterbury Centre Site
Visiting Hours & Access
Nearby Attractions
Travel Tips
The Westpac Canterbury Centre Arena in Addington
Visitor Information
Tickets and Booking
Guided Tours and Special Events
Travel Tips and Accessibility
What to See and Do
Economic and Social Role
Resilience and Urban Renewal
Demolition and Urban Transformation
Visiting the Site Today: The Crossing & ASB House
Location and Accessibility
What Visitors Can Expect
Visitor Tips
FAQ
Visuals and Media
Conclusion and Call to Action
References and Useful Links

Historical Overview and Architectural Significance

Early Development and Urban Context

The Westpac Canterbury Centre was commissioned in the early 1980s for the Canterbury Savings Bank and completed in 1983. Located at 166 Cashel Street—an intersection central to Christchurch’s business district—it represented the city’s late-20th-century modernization and economic growth.

Architectural Design and Features

Designed by the renowned firm Warren and Mahoney and constructed by C.S. Luney LTD for around $6.4 million NZD, the Centre rose 55 meters across 14 floors (Westpac Canterbury Centre - Wikipedia). Its design featured:

Rounded concrete pillars anchoring each corner
A sharply pointed triangular roof
An elongated hexagonal footprint

The ground floor originally housed a retail arcade, later converted to a Westpac branch, complementing the tower’s office spaces.

Role in Christchurch’s Urban Identity

The Westpac Canterbury Centre quickly became a city landmark, signifying Christchurch’s economic dynamism and architectural innovation. As a financial headquarters and a major part of the skyline, it contributed to the city’s commercial vibrancy and urban character.

Earthquake Impact and Structural Legacy

The building sustained significant damage in the 2010 Canterbury earthquake, with shattered windows and structural cracks leading to its closure. The February 2011 earthquake further compromised the structure, placing it inside Christchurch’s “red zone” due to collapse risk. Subsequent engineering assessments deemed it irreparable, primarily due to the failing reinforced concrete columns (Westpac Canterbury Centre - Wikipedia).

Demolition and Urban Transformation

Demolition began in 2012 using advanced machinery, including the German-made “Goliath” excavator, as the building posed a major safety risk and was not economically viable to restore. The removal of the Westpac Canterbury Centre was part of a broader transformation of Christchurch’s central business district, clearing space for urban renewal and modern redevelopment (Visiting the Former Westpac Canterbury Centre Site: Hours, History & Christchurch Urban Renewal).

Visiting Information for the Westpac Canterbury Centre Site

Visiting Hours & Access

The Westpac Canterbury Centre no longer exists; there are no entry fees or set visiting hours.
The site, now part of The Crossing retail and office precinct, is open to the public during standard business hours:
- Monday–Saturday: 9:00 AM–6:00 PM
- Sunday: 10:00 AM–5:00 PM
The area is pedestrian-friendly with accessible walkways and nearby parking.

What Visitors Can Expect

Interpretive signage and memorials at the site provide historical context, detailing the building’s legacy and the impact of the earthquakes. The precinct includes modern retail, dining, and office spaces, reflecting Christchurch’s ongoing regeneration.

Nearby Attractions

Christchurch Cathedral: Iconic heritage site just a short walk away.
Canterbury Museum: Delve into the region’s natural and cultural history.
Botanic Gardens: Expansive green space adjacent to the museum.
Riverside Market: Bustling food and craft market nearby.
Tūranga Library: Modern central library with exhibitions on Christchurch’s urban renewal.
Christchurch Art Gallery: Showcases local and international art, often with earthquake recovery themes.

Travel Tips

Christchurch’s city centre is walkable and well-served by public transport.
Guided walking tours are available, often including the former Westpac Canterbury Centre site and other earthquake-recovery landmarks.
For current events and accessibility updates, check ChristchurchNZ Tourism and the i-SITE Visitor Information Centre.

The Westpac Canterbury Centre Arena in Addington

Visitor Information

The Westpac Canterbury Centre Arena, located in Addington, is a multi-purpose venue renowned for hosting major concerts, sporting events, exhibitions, and community festivals (Visiting the Westpac Canterbury Centre: Hours, Tickets, and What to See in Christchurch). It stands as a symbol of Christchurch’s resilience and cultural vitality.

Visiting Hours

Open daily from 9:00 AM–6:00 PM, with extended hours for special events.

Tickets and Booking

Tickets for events are available online through official ticketing platforms linked on the arena’s website.
Early booking is recommended for popular events; group and VIP options are available.

Guided Tours and Special Events

Occasional guided tours provide behind-the-scenes access and insights into the arena’s architecture and operations.
Community events and festivals are held regularly—check current listings for details.

Travel Tips and Accessibility

Located on Jack Hinton Drive, Addington, about 15 minutes from the city centre by bus.
Ample on-site parking, including accessible spaces.
The arena is fully accessible, with ramps, elevators, and designated seating.

What to See and Do

Enjoy modern architecture and vibrant precinct amenities, including cafés and boutique shops.
Capture memorable photos of the venue and surrounding street art.

The arena drives Christchurch’s event economy, attracting locals and tourists while supporting local businesses and employment. It played a pivotal role in the city’s post-quake recovery, symbolizing hope and community cohesion.

Visiting the Former Westpac Canterbury Centre Site: The Crossing & ASB House

Location and Accessibility

The former Westpac Canterbury Centre stood at the corner of High Street and Cashel Street (GPS: -43.53324, 172.63807). The area is now part of The Crossing precinct, featuring ASB House and a mix of retail and office spaces (AroundUs, Wikipedia).

Current Site Status

The Crossing: Open to the public during retail hours; no entry fee required.
ASB House: Modern office building, not open for public tours.

Urban Regeneration Context

The site’s redevelopment is integral to Christchurch’s Central Recovery Plan, emphasizing resilient construction, public spaces, retail revitalization, and residential growth (Christchurch Central Recovery Plan, Architectus East Frame).

What to See and Do

Explore The Crossing’s shops, eateries, and open-air spaces.
Discover vibrant street art and public installations.
Visit nearby historical and cultural attractions, such as the Avon River Precinct and New Regent Street (NZ Pocket Guide).

Visitor Tips

Spring and autumn are ideal for mild weather and fewer crowds (Best Time to Visit Christchurch).
The precinct is fully accessible and supports visitors with mobility needs.
For maps, event info, and tour bookings, visit the i-SITE Visitor Information Centre.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I visit the original Westpac Canterbury Centre building?
A: No, the building was demolished in 2012. However, visitors can explore the site and learn about its history through interpretive signage and public tours.

Q: Is The Crossing open to the public?
A: Yes, the precinct is open daily, with no entry fee.

Q: Are there guided tours covering the site’s history?
A: While there are no dedicated tours for the Westpac Canterbury Centre site, many city walking tours include this and other earthquake-recovery landmarks.

Q: Is the area accessible?
A: The precinct is designed for accessibility, with ramps, wide pavements, and accessible facilities.

Q: What are the best photo opportunities?
A: Capture The Crossing’s modern architecture, surrounding murals, and the Avon River Precinct.

Visuals and Media

Historic images and demolition photographs are available through DigitalNZ. Current site photos and maps can be accessed via local tourism websites, with recommended alt texts such as “Westpac Canterbury Centre before demolition” and “The Crossing retail precinct, Christchurch.”

Conclusion

Though the original Westpac Canterbury Centre no longer stands, its story remains deeply woven into Christchurch’s urban identity, architectural heritage, and recovery narrative. The site’s transformation into The Crossing and ASB House epitomizes the city’s resilience and commitment to revitalization. Visitors can engage with this history through interpretive displays, guided tours, and the energetic atmosphere of the surrounding precincts, making it a compelling stop for anyone interested in Christchurch’s journey from disaster to renewal.

Call to Action

Plan your Christchurch visit by exploring the former Westpac Canterbury Centre site and its vibrant surroundings. For interactive tours and the latest event updates, download the Audiala app. Connect with local visitor centers for maps, guided tour information, and cultural event listings. Dive deeper into the city’s rich heritage by visiting local museums, galleries, and digital archives.