n the aftermath of the devastating 2011 Christchurch earthquakes, the Oxford Terrace Baptist Church embarked on a mission to rebuild not just their place of worship, but a vibrant community space on the land where the church had stood since 1881. This vision was driven by a commitment to create spaces where people could live, work, and worship together, fostering a sense of community and support.

The new facilities at Oxford Terrace Baptist Church include:

• 11 Warm, Affordable Rental Apartments: These apartments were designed with the intention of fostering a sense of community among neighbours. In response to housing injustice, seven of these apartments are allocated to families from the social housing waiting list, ensuring they pay no more than 25 percent of their income in rent.

• Childcare Centre: Providing a safe and nurturing environment for children, the childcare centre supports working families within the community.

• Offices for NGOs: The church has dedicated office spaces for non-governmental organizations, including World Vision and Visionwest, enabling them to continue their vital work within the community.

• A Modern Place of Worship: The new church building offers a contemporary space for worship, reflecting the resilience and forward-thinking spirit of the congregation.

• Café: A welcoming café serves as a social hub, encouraging interaction and connection among community members.

The decision to include warm, affordable apartments was a key part of the church's vision. These homes are not just places to live, but spaces designed to foster a sense of belonging and community. By providing housing to families from the social housing waiting list, the church is addressing housing injustice and ensuring that these families have a stable and affordable place to call home.

The Oxford Terrace Baptist Church's initiative is a testament to the power of community and the importance of creating spaces that support and uplift everyone. Their efforts have transformed a site of tragedy into a beacon of hope and resilience, demonstrating that even in the face of disaster, a strong and supportive community can emerge stronger than ever.

Warm affordable apartments were part of the vision, built with the intention to foster a sense of community between neighbours.  

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