Compelling Cardboard Cathedral

I had to blip the new Cathedral. Like 'The Tree' in Wanaka this Cathedral invites people to photograph it. Its unusual composition and design stimulates discussion, both for and against, provoking comments and criticism.

It has a capacity for 700 worshippers, and is built from 98 polyurethane and flame retardant-coated cardboard beams, and its translucent polycarbonate roof radiates light from within when lit for services. The front arch, made up of striking triangular stained glass windows etched with images from the original cathedral's rose window, glows with deep and vibrant colour.

The building is the instantly world famous Transitional Cathedral, an architectural wonder designed by Shigeru Ban” whom HufPo calls “none other than disaster relief housing specialist, environmentalist, and cardboard building proselytizer, and lauded “emergency architect.”

I have to admit to having struggled with spending $6m on a temporary building (although some say it should last 50 years!), when there are still people living in cars in Christchurch, in garages and other temporary dwellings, and of course many in damaged homes that are cracked, leaky and draughty. However, the Cathedral is here to stay and good on the Anglicans for sticking to their guns and doing what they felt was best for their parish and for the city too.

So here is my effort - and I enjoyed capturing its shapes.