An architect involved in the construction of Christchurch's cardboard cathedral says the need for repairs before it has been completed is not a sign that the building will be weak.
Rain has damaged several of the large cardboard tubes that make up the body of the Anglican Church's new cathedral.
It is hoped that the $7 million building will finally be opened to the public by mid-August this year, but builders are having to repair some of the cardboard tubes due to water damage.
The building was designed by Japanese architect Shigeru Ban and is being constructed with assistance of Christchurch architects Warren and Mahoney.
Peter Marshall, from Warren and Mahoney, said on Friday the damage in no way weakens the cathedral as there is a laminated timber beam inside each cardboard tube to strengthen it.
Mr Marshall said using a material like cardboard makes it very easy to repair the building and there is not expected to be any further damage once it's weather-tight.
The cardboard cathedral near Latimer Square. Photo: RNZ
