Discover Christchurch through the lens of earthquake engineering and resilient design on this guided technical walking tour through the central city. Following the 2010-2011 Canterbury earthquake sequence, Christchurch became an internationally significant centre for seismic engineering, reconstruction and innovation. The rebuild has provided opportunities to implement and demonstrate a range of advanced approaches to earthquake-resistant and low-damage design.

The tour will visit selected buildings and structures in central Christchurch and explore technologies such as base isolation, seismic strengthening and retrofit, post-tensioned rocking systems, and self-centering structures. Participants will also hear about the performance of buildings during the Canterbury earthquakes, lessons learned from the recovery, and how these experiences have influenced contemporary approaches to seismic resilience.

Potential highlights include the Christchurch Art Gallery Te Puna o Waiwhetū, The Arts Centre Te Matatiki Toi Ora, Tūranga (Christchurch Central Library) and other notable examples of seismic innovation and post-earthquake reconstruction.

The technical tour will conclude with a light lunch, providing an opportunity for informal discussion and networking with fellow delegates.

We look forward to your participation in this insightful exploration of Christchurch's urban transformation!