Noah's Hotel

The long-awaited restoration of the landmark hotel once known as Noah's and later as Rydges is finally in motion. Emmons Developments has put an end to their lengthy $190 million insurance dispute, ushering in a revival for this landmark establishment. Previously, the building was flagged on the Christchurch City Council's "Dirty 30" list in the aftermath of the earthquakes. This extensive complex once encompassed a retail space, parking structure, and the towering 12-storey Grant Thornton office.

For us, the hotel's renaissance holds special significance due to its adjacency to our Christchurch store and was an influencing factor when we chose the site. Preliminary restoration phases are focused on a thorough structural assessment of the hotel. This will pave the way for critical decisions regarding the future of the neighboring parking facility - whether it gets a facelift or a complete reconstruction.

Initially introduced to the city in the 1970s as Noah's Hotel and later transitioning to Rydges, this venue has woven itself into the fabric of Christchurch's cultural legacy. Its presence during the 1974 Commonwealth Games is particularly memorable. A testament to Fletcher Building's impeccable craftsmanship, the hotel was built to an unparalleled standard. It had the forward-thinking design capability to function as an emergency field hospital if the need arose, complete with doors tailored to accommodate gurneys - a feature that contributes to its resilience today.

Its strategic location, in close proximity to major sporting venues and the then newly unveiled Christchurch Town Hall, positioned it as the accommodation of choice for a plethora of teams, delegates, and media professionals during the Commonwealth Games. Noah's Hotel evolved into a media hub, its cutting-edge conference rooms frequently buzzing with press activities and interviews, further amplifying its central role in the Games' narratives. Beyond that, the hotel's luxurious Waitangi Room, distinguished by its lush Feltex carpets and a lavish 1970s menu, was the go-to spot for gourmet dinners and high-end social events.