The House closes its doors at 187 Cashel Street on Friday 31 May (Queen’s Birthday Weekend) and opens for business at 141 Hereford Street (opposite the National Mutual Arcade) on Tuesday 4 June.

Community House Manager Mike Asmussen says people will still be able to access services during the move.

“However, it’ll be a chaotic and stressful time for all the organisations involved, so I recommend phoning first. We apologise for any inconvenience this may cause our clients.”

Mr Asmussen says the new building will give people access to a wide range of social services in one location, from budget advice to volunteering.

“It has more floor space and each area is accessible for people with disabilities, parents with young children and the elderly. It offers better facilities for the community we service.”

Christchurch Community House Te Whakaruruhau ki Otautahi is funded by the Community Trust, which provides the premises, and gets $150,000 a year from the Christchurch City Council, which pays the lease.

Not-for-profit community organisations, such as the Citizens’ Advice Bureau, Tenants Protection Association and Disabled Person’s Assembly, pay below-market rentals for office space to contribute to the building’s ongoing operating costs.

Mr Asmussen says by providing a stable environment and access to affordable resources, community groups can get on with their business, rather than fighting for survival.

The House is also a resource centre for other community groups and provides meeting rooms (interview, committee and conference), casual office space, photocopying and faxing at community prices.

Community groups interested in becoming a tenant or accessing the other services provided by Christchurch Community House Te Whakaruruhau ki Otautahi, should ring the House, on 365 3139.