New Zealand Stories - Battle at the Basilica

This documentary follows the fight to save Christchurch’s “other” earthquake damaged cathedral, the Roman Catholic basilica. A team led by a heritage consultant and a structural engineer struggles to keep pace with fresh damage inflicted on the basilica by ongoing quakes. Drones and a Defence Force robot aid investigations into the interior of the now dangerous building. There are hard questions about the venture’s costs. But, as parishioners tell their stories, there’s also reminders that the basilica isn’t just an architectural treasure — it has been the heart of a community.

Is it unique art worth restoring or preserving? Would New Zealand be poorer for not having that building there?

– Parishioner Robyn Bascand

Key Cast & Crew

Ivars Berzins

Director, Camera

Amanda Evans

Producer

Chris Nichol

Interviewer

Jude Callen

Commissioning Editor

Carolyn Weston

Research

David Ironside

Composer