The reopening of a world-class Canterbury Museum is one step closer thanks to significant new financial support from Christchurch City Council.
Christchurch city councillors voted today to provide additional funding for the redevelopment with a $15 million grant and a $28.6 million loan, to be repaid through an entry fee for international visitors.
Canterbury Museum Tumuaki Tuarua | Deputy Director Sarah Murray said the new funding was a major milestone for the project.
“We are delighted and hugely grateful for this significant support.”
“This investment maintains momentum on the project and brings us a step closer to reopening a world-class museum in the heart of the city, reconnecting our communities with the collections and stories they value.
“The Council’s proposal reflects a practical and considered funding approach, including the proposed use of an international visitor entry charge. Visitor contributions are common in museums nationally and internationally, and this approach will support the long-term sustainability of the Museum.
“Our focus now is on continuing to work constructively with our partners, including central Government, to develop the remaining components of the funding package and ensure the project can be delivered as planned.
“We are also very appreciative of the ongoing support from our contributing district authorities, Waimakariri District Council, Hurunui District Council and Selwyn District Council, who continue to stand behind the Museum and its future.”
Canterbury Museum Trust Board Toihau | Chairperson Tom Thomson said the council funding was a “strong vote of confidence in the redevelopment”.
“We particularly appreciate the Council’s ability to prioritise this project by using available surpluses. That speaks to both careful financial management and the value the city and the wider region place on the Museum. The project is well advanced, and this level of support reflects its importance to the region’s cultural, educational and economic future.
“We will continue to work closely with the Government and other partners to complete the funding package and ensure the redevelopment can proceed on a secure and sustainable footing.”
The Museum had previously secured funding to complete the new base-isolated basement and building, but only to the point that they are weatherproof and insurable. Work started on this stage of the project in October last year and is due to be completed in early 2028.
Funding for the redevelopment has come from the Museum’s own funds ($63.4 million), private donations ($1.05 million), grants and Lotteries funding ($850,000), central government ($35 million) and local government ($118.2 million). This includes $24.5 million from the Christchurch City Council for the base isolation and strengthening of the Robert McDougall Gallery. The Museum has a long-term lease on the Council-owned building.