New Zealand Builds First Catholic Cathedral in 120 Years with Quake-Resistant Structure
Christchurch Cathedral will seat 800 people and feature a structure designed to flex during earthquakes. The project will cost NZ$80 million.
TL;DR
- The new Christchurch Cathedral is the first Catholic cathedral built in New Zealand in over 120 years.
- The structure is designed to flex in an earthquake, utilizing fiberglass-reinforced concrete and brick and stone walls.
- The building will have a capacity for 800 people and will feature a perpetual adoration chapel and a community center.
- The project is estimated to cost NZ$80 million, with NZ$45 million covered by insurance and asset sales.
- Cost-saving measures include using electronic bells and having students design side windows until stained glass can be afforded.