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Cardboard Cathedral
Photo: Wikimedia Commons
poi · NZ

Cardboard Cathedral

Getting around: In central Christchurch, an easy walk from Cathedral Square, about 10 minutes.
Hours: Typically open daily, roughly 9am-5pm on weekdays with shorter hours on weekends and around services — check ahead as hours can vary.

The Cardboard Cathedral (Transitional Cathedral) was built as a temporary replacement for Christ Church Cathedral after the 2011 Christchurch earthquake destroyed the original, and its triangular A-frame is constructed largely from giant cardboard tubes, timber, and steel. It's a striking, unusual piece of architecture from Japanese architect Shigeru Ban, designed to be quick to build and eventually replaceable.

Though intended as transitional, it's remained in use for years and functions as a working Anglican cathedral as well as a symbol of the city's earthquake recovery.

Cardboard Cathedral FAQs

Is it actually made of cardboard?

Largely, yes — the structural A-frame uses large cardboard tubes reinforced with timber and steel, along with a polycarbon roof.

Is entry free?

Yes, general entry is free, with donations welcomed.

Is it still an active church?

Yes, it functions as Christchurch's working Anglican cathedral while the original Christ Church Cathedral undergoes long-term earthquake repair.

How long does a visit take?

It's a quick stop, 15-30 minutes, unless you attend a service or event.

Why was it built?

As a temporary cathedral after the original was badly damaged in the 2011 Canterbury earthquakes; it has remained in use much longer than originally planned.

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