Te Papa Ōtākaro / Avon River Precinct

ChristchurchCompleted

CID's predecessor delivered Te Papa Ōtākaro / Avon River Precinct, New Zealand's largest public realm transformation, along the Avon River through central Christchurch

Te Papa Ōtākaro grew from a clear public desire: that the city's river should be a feature of the rebuilt centre, not something it turned its back on.

The $120 million programme spans around 48,000m² from the Hospital to Fitzgerald Avenue. It includes the Margaret Mahy Family Playground, the City Promenade, the Canterbury Earthquake National Memorial and the Avon Loop.

More than 500 trees, 45,000 plants and 34 artworks and installations went into the precinct.

The final element, the North Frame pedestrian bridge, transferred to Christchurch City Council in December 2023, completing the handover of the entire precinct into Council stewardship.

CID's role

Ōtākaro, CID's predecessor, delivered the programme on behalf of the Crown, from procurement and design management through construction to handover.

Key facts

  • $120 million programme
  • Around 48,000m² of public space
  • 500+ trees, 45,000 plants, 34 artworks
  • Fully transferred to Christchurch City Council, December 2023

Project videos