Canterbury Club Inc.

The Canterbury Club was founded in 1872 by a group of prominent Christchurch business and professional men. The site currently occupied by the Canterbury Club was one of twelve tendered. It was selected by member ballot on August 17th, 1872 and is now considered one of the prime sites of the city. Some additional property was acquired at a later stage, the current car parking area to the south of the club house being the former site of a small cottage that for two years (1856-1858) was Bishop Harper’s Episcopal residence. Building of the Club house commenced in 1873 and a description in the "Press” of its construction and amenities confirms that, for the most part, this has been faithfully preserved. Some additional rooms were added in 1875 and extensions on the south side carried out in 1907. The Club has always endeavoured to preserve its heritage and examples are apparent today. The hitching post at the Club entrance is a reminder of member’s earlier mode of transport. The flagpole a top the clubhouse was erected in 1897 to commemorate the sixtieth anniversary of the Queen Victoria’s reign. The gas lamp, incorporated in the Club’s motif, is still standing at the Club entrance and is the sole surviving gas lamp in the city. Over the years, the Club has had many illustrious members. One of its founding directors was the Hon. John Hall (late Sir John Hall), who seven years later became Premier of New Zealand. The Club has also played host to many distinguished visitors, including Sir Robert Falcon Scott. The Canterbury Club is proud of its heritage. As the Club moves into the new millennium, it is indebted to those members who, over the years have maintained the traditions, integrity and fellowship that formed the cornerstone of its foundation. In the inevitably changing times ahead, the Canterbury Club will continue to uphold these values.

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