ABOUT
Empowering changemakers
At Christchurch Community House, our vision is to create a thriving interconnected community of changemakers. It's our mission to empower them to make Christchurch a better place for all.
We're for Ōtautahi Christchurch. It's in our name, it's on our building and it's in our hearts.
Connection
We believe in the strength of collective action, cultivating a culture of partnership that breaks down silos and strengthens the bonds within our community.
Impact
We are a hub of positivity radiating out into the wider community, with a shared desire to create meaningful change.
Sustainability
We are committed to long-term impact, supporting our members and their missions for decades to come, while promoting wellbeing through our natural greenspaces.
Diversity
We celebrate diversity by fostering an inclusive environment where everyone is respected, valued, and empowered to thrive.
What we value
Our history
Since 1989, Christchurch Community House (CCH) has been at the heart of supporting impact-led organisations. Established as a joint initiative between The Canterbury Community Trust (Now the Rata Foundation) and the Christchurch City Council, CCH was envisioned as a one-stop shop for social services, promoting collaboration and resource-sharing among community groups.
In mid 1998 Community House was selected and gifted their Maori name, Te Whakaruruhau ki Ōtautahi by Rev Maurice Gray of Te Runaka ki Ōtautahi o Kai Tahu. Whakaruruhau represents shelter, umbrella, but also a launching pad while Ōtautahi is the Maori name for the area settlers named Christchurch. In 2009 a speech was delivered on behalf of Hon Tariana Turia (then Minister for the Community and Voluntary Sector) at Christchurch Community House Te Whakaruruhau ki Ōtautahi. Hon Tariana Turia spoke of the concept of Te Whakaruruhau as being deeply rooted in Te Ao Maori, "we think of it as the image of the tallest trees forming the upper canopy within our great forests" and quoted Professor Ranginui Walker "the sheltering nurturing windbreak of the great forest of Tane Mahuta".
Over the years, CCH has grown and adapted alongside the community it serves. After the February 2011 earthquake, which damaged its former premises, CCH navigated several temporary locations before settling into its current home at 213 Lichfield Street in 2022. This building features aluminium facade panels depicting the original Christchurch City Plan from 1874 and was a Bronze Award Winner in the 2017 New Zealand Commercial Projects Awards 'in recognition of excellence in workmanship, construction practices and innovation.'
Our team
Christchurch Community House is guided by a dedicated Trust Board, elected by our members to ensure the House operates in line with the principles and objectives outlined in our Trust Deed. The Board works tirelessly to uphold our mission and vision, supporting the vibrant community we’ve built. Overseeing the day-to-day operations is our House Manager, who ensures the smooth running of the House and provides essential support to both tenants and visitors. Together, they form the backbone of our organisation, fostering a collaborative and welcoming environment for all.
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Glenda Martin
Board Chairperson
Mark Wells
Board Member
Nicola Davis
Board Member
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Ian Walden
Board Member
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Gabrielle Lilleyman
Board Member
Our board
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Our community
We’re proud to support a vibrant community of not-for-profits and impact-driven organisations dedicated to creating positive change. At Christchurch Community House, collaboration flourishes, missions are celebrated, and work becomes a powerful force for good. Discover the inspiring people and organisations making a difference—explore our Directory today.
Today, this purpose-built facility supports over 20 tenant organisations, along with many others who benefit from its shared resources. In June 2022 a community garden was created outside the main entrance. This garden is named Tupuānuku Kete after Tupuānuku the Matariki star connected to everything grown within the soil to be harvested or gathered for food.
Now with 50+ member organisations and growing, Christchurch Community House continues to provide affordable, high-quality spaces that foster connection, creativity, and social impact.