Sign of the Takahe

An iconic Port Hills building is the Sign of the Takahe, a much loved restaurant and function area with a panoramic view over Christchurch and to the Southern Alps.

Now closed because of earthquake damage, council inspections show that it has a seismic strength of only 15% of the building code, so strengthening work is needed to bring it up to a minimum of 67% of the building code.

Built between 1918 and 1948 by visionary Harry Ell, it is in the style of an English Manor House. Originally designed as a rest house, it is one of four that were built across the top of the Port Hills to provide rest spots for walkers.

This one is more elaborate than the other three, with Port Hills stone quarried and hand chiseled into blocks, and interior beams made of our native Kauri wood.