The Bridge of Remembrance was converted in 1976 to pedestrian use only and remains a notable feature of the riverside area of Christchurch. Its design is a significant example of the work of one of New Zealand's leading architects of the time. Gummer's combination of utility, monumentalism and muted symbolism created a distinguished and substantial memorial to New Zealand's dead. The site on which the bridge was built is also significant as a place that all the Canterbury soldiers passed as they marched off to war.
Location
List Entry Information
Overview
Detailed List Entry
Status
Listed
List Entry Status
Historic Place Category 1
Access
Able to Visit
List Number
289
Date Entered
4th April 1985
Date of Effect
4th April 1985
City/District Council
Christchurch City
Region
Canterbury Region
Extent of List Entry
Extent includes the land described as Stopped Street SO Plan 14545, Canterbury Land District and the structure known as the Bridge of Remembrance thereon, and its fittings and fixtures.
Legal description
Stopped Street SO Plan 14545, Canterbury Land District
Location Description
The Bridge of Remembrance has high contextual significance due to its location spanning the Avon River and its proximity to the former site of the King Edward Barracks, which was part of the justification for the siting of the memorial. The Bridge of Remembrance is part of a network of Victorian and Edwardian central city bridges. The bridge has landmark significance due to its bold design and scale, prominent location and alignment on Cashe Street, which is the central city's primary retail precinct, and as part of the cultural landscape of the Avon River. The setting includes the riverbank with the mature trees, the statue of Sergeant Henry Nicholas and the views along Cashel Street towards the bridge.