A landmark Christchurch building is entering another phase of its evolution, reopening on 23 August as a venue to inform and educate citizens and visitors about the city’s environment and past, present and future developments.

Our City O-Tautahi will allow agencies to communicate on topics with a local, regional and global perspective. Exhibitions, displays and seminars will encourage the exchange of ideas and knowledge about urban development and environmental issues.

The new use will see spaces such as the former council debating chamber again echoing to the sounds of public debate.

The historic building and the land it sits on, on the corner of Oxford Terrace and Worcester Boulevard, have played a crucial part in the city’s development.

From the 1850s the site — Reserve 10 — was home to the Canterbury Association’s Land Transfer Office. It was from there that the organised European settlement of Christchurch began.

In 1885, the Council announced a competition for designs for new Municipal Chambers. Amid a flurry of controversy, the entry from Samuel Hurst Seager was selected as the winner.

In 1922, the Canterbury Chamber of Commerce leased the building and occupied it until 1987.

Our City O-Tautahi is being renovated to highlight original features and accommodate modern facilities to enhance the exhibitions planned for the space.