ChristChurch Cathedral re-opened this morning after receiving a final clearance from engineers.

They concluded that the building suffered only superficial damage in the big earthquake, but scaffolding to allow close inspection of the nave will remain in the short term for ‘repointing’ of stonework.

The tower also is open to the public, having suffered only superficial cracking of its internal stonework.

Services re-commence this Sunday, September 26^.

Dean Peter Beck said he and his staff look forward to again welcoming locals and visitors to the Cathedral and are thankful that there has been no serious damage.