The Open Christchurch event, organised by Te Pūtahi—Centre for Architecture and City Making, was held from 2nd to 4th May 2025. Fo Guang Shan Christchurch was selected for the fourth time as one of the city’s 51 most outstanding buildings and was also the only Buddhist site featured. The Temple was recognised for its architectural structure, sustainable design, eco-friendly materials, and cultural and humanistic values.
During the open house on 3rd and 4th May, nearly 500 visitors, including architects, designers, postgraduate students, connoisseurs, and artists, explored the Temple.
This year’s Open Christchurch featured 51 buildings, two landscaped gardens, and five guided walking routes. The selection included heritage landmarks, churches, and major civic projects such as Te Kaha Stadium, Christchurch’s largest public development, and the Chapel of St Thérèse of Lisieux. Altogether, it formed the largest Open Christchurch event to date, showcasing the city’s architectural and cultural richness.
FGS NZ Abbess Manshin shared that the Temple is a gift to the Christchurch community from the founder, Venerable Master Hsing Yun. Since its opening in 2007, the Temple has embodied the ideals of Humanistic Buddhism, which was taught by the Buddha, is needed by people, and is pure, virtuous and beautiful. Rooted in the principle of Focusing on Humanity, the Temple uses Buddhist architecture and art to express the Dharma in a skilful way and in harmony with local culture. This year, architect Ian Bisman from Warren and Mahoney, who collaborated with the Temple in 2006, was invited to give guided tours. Many locals attended, reflecting that the Temple has become increasingly rooted and respected in wider society through years of dedication.
Visitors explored key areas of the Temple, including the Longmen Grotto-inspired model and façade, the Path of Seeking the Way exposed concrete wall, the Time Tunnel highlighting the shifting light and shadow, the Main Shrine and the climbing fig wall behind the Art Gallery. They also enjoyed the Summer Forest Joint Exhibition, experienced calligraphy, Buddha bathing, rang the Happiness Bell, wrote wishing cards and so on.
The Temple’s reception team included BLIA South Island President James LOW, committee members Deirdre Johns, Ola Lyckholm, and representatives from the FGS Tsung Lin University in Taiwan, including Venerable Zhirou and students.
Visitors shared that every corner of the Temple carried profound meaning and praised the architectural thoughtfulness. To commemorate the visit, the Temple gifted visitors with Auspicious Apples, Wise Words of Venerable Master Hsing Yun and an architectural edition of Auckland and Christchurch Temple, the Way of Life, sharing the spirit of compassion and humanistic care with all.