A Stonemason’s Story – working on the Observatory Tower

FREE EVENT

Learn from one of the master stonemasons at Te Matatiki Toi Ora The Arts Centre. Find out what it was like to have to deconstruct the remains of the ruined Observatory Tower – and the whole front wall of the Biological Laboratory building – before painstakingly building it back up again to look as good as new.

Find out the historic tools and techniques used by stonemasons today – the same tools as generations and centuries of stonemasons have used.

Have an opportunity to ask questions about the Oamaru stone, what it is like to work at heights, why the mason chose his profession, what it is like to work in all weathers, has the mason ever hammered a finger, and more!

Venue: Observatory Tower entrance.

Door entry will be available on the day for non-ticket holders, but you will be asked to sign in.

This event is part of the Christchurch Heritage Festival and is supported by the Christchurch City Council Heritage Festival Community Grant.