Christchurch Archaeology Project is developing a new exhibition that will bring to life Cathedral Square’s early history. The exhibition will run from 16 to 22 February 2026 in Christ Church Cathedral.

Timed to coincide with the 15th anniversary of the 22 February earthquake, the exhibition will offer Christchurch people a chance to reconnect with the city’s past through everyday objects uncovered during post-quake excavations and the city's rebuild.

The display will explore the lives of Christchurch’s early residents and merchants using clues found in their discarded objects. The project team aspire to breathe life into the personalities of the past by creating a display that:

- brings Christchurch people together

- tells stories using creative, local talent

- is generous - designed for a broad audience and generating reusable resources

The exhibition is currently being designed by both international and local experts. Plans for the display centre on artefacts and local stories enhanced with video projections, augmented reality, and digital displays.

Locals will be invited to contribute to the exhibition online. Families may have photographs or stories about early whānau, and local businesses might hold memories or archives of their premises.

Images: C. Hoopman Photography.