The 80 tonne dome of Christchurch's Edmonds Band Rotunda has been lifted back to its rightful place after it was damaged in the 2011 earthquake.
The dome was lifted back onto the building at first light this morning. Photo: RNZ / Nate McKinnon
The rotunda which was built in 1929 as a gift to the city from businessman Thomas Edmonds was badly damaged in the earthquakes and for safety reasons was deconstructed.
The dome has been sitting wrapped up on the ground next to the rotunda site besides the Avon River near Manchester Street since.
Photo: RNZ / Nate McKinnon
At first light this morning the copper sheathed dome was lifted back onto the building.
The cost of the restoration is $1.5 million, $1m has been granted from The Christchurch Earthquake Appeal Trust.
Christchurch City Council spokesman Darren Moses said because of the weight of the dome a special crane was brought down from the North Island for the job.
The restoration is expected to be finished by the end of April next year. Photo: RNZ / Nate McKinnon
The dome is sitting on scaffolding until new columns are built to support it.
"It's great to see it back in its rightful place after such a long time. It's a significant milestone in the restoration of the rotunda," Moses said.
The restoration is half way through with the project expected to be complete at the end of April next year.
Moses said when complete it will be used for performances, wedding photos and as a sheltered place where people can sit and relax.