Daresbury House in Fendalton Road faces demolition after its Category 1 listing was rescinded by Christchurch City Council in early 2025, despite opposition from Christchurch Civic Trust.
The owner intends to redevelop the site for luxury housing due to high repair costs estimated at 9.2 million post earthquake 2010/2011 damage.
As of late 2025, ministerial decisions by Chris Bishop, minister for RMA Reform, on the related planning changes (PC14) for the site remain pending with no confirmed demolition or preservation outcome by January 2026.
The house’s background.
Daresbury, built in 1897-1901 (interestingly the same construction dates as McLean’s Mansion in Manchester Street and which is almost fully restored) is an English Domestic Revival mansion, designed by Samuel Hurst Seager and was once the Governor General’s residence (1940-1950).
It suffered damage in the 2010/2011 earthquakes which lead to its closure.
Recent Developments.
Christchurch City Council voted to delist the heritage status against Independent Hearings Panel advise, and incorrect advise given by one city councillor (who later on, had to withdraw that advise and apologise). The decision to delist prompted Christchurch Civic Trust to write an appeal to Chris Bishop, Minister for RMA Reform
- Owner James Milne plans “careful deconstruction” and salvage for a $50 million residential development. Full demolition consents aren’t noted as granted yet, but delisting effectively allows it.
- Preservation Efforts. Christchurch Civic Trust has actively campaigned to have Daresbury’s heritage status reinstated, having written to Paul Goldsmith, Minister for Heritage, who inexplicably declined involvement and passed his letter to Chris Bishop, Minister for RMA Reform in March 2025, to challenge the delisting.
- No updates have been received and the house remains vacant and at risk.