Quake-hit NZ cathedral to be partially demolished
The cathedral in Christchurch, New Zealand, that was significantly damaged by February's 6.3-magnitude earthquake, is to undergo a controlled partial demolition, in a bid to try to salvage as much of it as possible.
The Christchurch Anglican Cathedral is to be deconsecrated and then have parts of it taken down brick-by-brick, and the remaining structure made safe. On top of the damage from the February earthquake, the cathedral was further rattled by another 6.3-magnitude quake in June.
Bishop Victoria Matthews said the plans were to begin the demolition before Christmas, and to remove important artefacts from the interior as soon as possible, including the pulpit, carvings and certain religious icons.
"The future of the cathedral, which is so symbolic, will have a combination of old and new," Matthews told a press conference. "At all times we have proceeded with a deep commitment to being faithful to the gospel we proclaim. We must be responsible and above all faithful stewards as we make decisions about the mission of the Church."
Until the demolition process begins, it will be unclear as to how much of the structure will need to be demolished. The deconsecration ceremony has been scheduled for 9 November - less than a week after the 130th anniversary of its original consecration will be celebrated with a ceremony this weekend.
