Puaka–James Hight Building
| Puaka–James Hight Building | |
|---|---|
Te Puna Mātauraka | |
Puaka–James Hight Building in June 2024 | |
| Former names | James Hight Building |
| Alternative names | Central Library |
| General information | |
| Architectural style | Brutalist / Modernist |
| Town or city | Christchurch |
| Country | New Zealand |
| Coordinates | 43°31′25″S 172°34′58″E / 43.523513°S 172.582704°E |
| Construction started | 1969 |
| Completed | 1974 |
| Renovated | 2013 |
| Cost | NZ$3.05 million (equivalent to $61.77 million in 2023) |
| Client | University of Canterbury |
| Height | 53 m (173 ft). |
| Technical details | |
| Structural system | Reinforced concrete |
| Floor count | 11 |
| Design and construction | |
| Architect(s) | Ministry of Works |
| Civil engineer | CS Luney Construction |
| Renovating team | |
| Architect(s) | Warren and Mahoney |
| Civil engineer | Hawkins NZ |
The Puaka–James Hight Building is the main library building of the University of Canterbury. It is named after Puaka the Māori star cluster also known as Rigel in the Orion constellation, and Sir James Hight, former, professor, and rector at Canterbury College. Rising 53-metres-tall, its distinctive brutalist design, characterised by exposed concrete, confronts the skyline and has become an enduring symbol of the institution, and the most recognisable building on campus.
Constructed in the 1970s, the Puaka–James Hight Building has witnessed numerous renovations and expansions, adapting to the evolving needs of the university community. Originally named the James Hight Building, the structure underwent a naming change with the inclusion of "Puaka" to reflect the university's relationship with the mana whenua, Ngāi Tahu. The building provides students with learning resources and study spaces as well as a communal food and services area on the ground floor.