Catholic Cathedral Christchurch, Bernard Spragg Photo

The Cathedral is often called 'the Basilica'. While its style is Neo-Classic, and its form is based on that of the old Roman basilicas, it contains much that is original. Normally, the dome would be sited above the junction of the nave and the transepts. By placing it over the sanctuary the architect provided a visual climax to the interior which is rich in movement and delightful in its simplicity. Indeed, the whole internal space presents a harmony of spacious galleries, colonnades with their varied capitals, and an interplay of gracious arches. The ambulatory and aisles provide a cool spacious feeling, and the beauty of the interior is further enhanced by mosaic tiling in the sanctuary and ceilings of embossed zinc.