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Refurbishing community pillars
The columns on the
Bandsmen’s Memorial Rotunda in the Botanic Gardens are being replaced to
bring the structure up to New Zealand Building Code earthquake standards.
Workmen have been removing the columns one at a time, propping up that part
of the roof, then putting in place a fibreglass mould into which concrete
is poured. The new columns are exact replicas of the originals. Designed
by S. and A. Luttrell and built by Rennell Brothers, the rotunda was built
to honour Christchurch bandsmen who died in World War I. It was officially
opened by Heaton Rhodes on September 19, 1926. The six columns rest on a
base with a metal balustrade, supporting the entablature above. Original
plans featured a dome that was not built due to lack of funds. The rotunda
has a Grade II Historic Places Trust listing and remains a popular spot
for concerts and photographs.
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