Model of Canterbury Cathedral

This model of Canterbury Cathedral is significant for several reasons. The Anglican Cathedral in Christchurch Square is the key icon of the Canterbury earthquakes. In the devastating Canterbury earthquakes of 22 February and 13 June 2011 the Cathedral lost its tower and famed stained glass Rose Window. To many, the broken Cathedral was the key symbol of devastation. But in creative works such as this model, the Cathedral was made whole again and acted as a symbol of hope that Christchurch can survive and rebuild.

This model also illustrates how other parts of New Zealand helped support Canterbury in creative ways. It was commissioned by Wellington business owner Rochelle Jackson of Wellington, and made by architecture student Achille Segard, for the Wellington business charity Hands Up. Hands Up helped fellow business people in Christchurch bring their stock to Wellington for 48 hours to operate 'business as usual' through an expo held on 2-3 July 2011 on Queens Wharf. Over 300 Wellington businesses and individuals donated money and time to the enterprise. 70 Christchurch businesses were supported with free freight and storage. The expo was a huge success with up to 15,000 people visiting and buying much of the goods on offer. The model acted as a money box as people entered the expo. Afterwards it was placed in the concourse of Wellington Airport where it raised $4000 in donations in one month.

The model is made from finely cut high grade perspex and is based on historic architectural plans and photographs, thus creating a hybrid 'dream' cathedral which includes detailing from the original plans not present in the final building.