Sign of the Takahe, Christchurch

The Sign of the Takahe holds great historical importance in Christchurch due to its unique neo-Gothic architectural style. It was initially part of a larger plan by Harry Ell, a local councilor and Member of Parliament, aiming to establish rest houses along Summit Road for walkers in the Port Hills area. These rest houses offered panoramic views of Christchurch and Lyttelton Harbour. Alongside the Sign of the Takahe, there were three other structures: the Sign of the Kiwi, the Sign of the Bellbird, and the Sign of the Packhorse.

Construction of the Sign of the Takahe began in 1918 and took nearly three decades to complete. Initially opening in 1920 as the Tram Terminus Rest House, it featured a tram terminus and a tearoom. However, it wasn't until after Ell died in 1934 that the project reached its full realization under architect J.G. Collins. The Christchurch City Council acquired the building in 1942, and it was finally finished in 1948, opening to the public the following year.

The Sign of the Takahe pays homage to the native New Zealand flightless bird, the Takahē, and symbolizes the resilience and ingenuity during the Great Depression. The construction process involved cost-saving measures such as local stone quarrying, hand-chiseling of stone, and repurposing materials like Kauri beams and timber from packing cases for the dining room ceilings.

One of its notable features is the dining room fireplace, a replica of one found in the historic Haddon Hall in Derbyshire, England. Today, the Sign of the Takahe operates as a cafe and bar, hosting weddings and events. It's designated as a Category I heritage site by Heritage New Zealand, ensuring its preservation for future generations.