The Christchurch Town Hall was officially opened on 30 September 1972. The complex originally consisted of three major elements - an auditorium, a theatre and foyer/function rooms.
Seating over 2300 people in tiered levels, the auditorium can accommodate an orchestra of 120, and a choir of 400. A pipe organ was installed in 1997. The traditional drama theatre seats over 1000 people and many receptions, conventions, exhibitions and meetings have been conducted in the other areas. It was also home to Boaters Restaurant which doubled as a hospitality training venue.
Due to significant damage sustained during the February 2011 Christchurch earthquake, it was closed until 2019. Initially it was recommended that all except the main auditorium be demolished, however there was much public debate at the time and later in 2013 it was decided to rebuild the entire complex.
Now with the auditorium, theatre and three large event rooms beautifully restored and refurbished, the Christchurch Town Hall is an outstanding venue. It's acoustics, integrated technology, iconic architectural features and riverside views make it a truly unique and functional place.
https://my.christchurchcitylibraries.com/christchurch-town-hall/
https://ccc.govt.nz/culture-and-community/central-city-christchurch/explore-amazing-things/town-hall
Photo: Michal Klajban