New Justice Precinct to be emergency headquarters

The precinct, which houses emergency services and the courts, will officially open late next month. 

This will be the government's first major construction to be completed in Christchurch since the Canterbury earthquakes which started in 2010.

Yesterday, Justice Minister Amy Adams attended a Maori blessing for the site on the corner of Montreal and Lichfield streets.

Adams said the building, with its own water and power supply, would be the headquarters for any future response to a natural disaster. She wants to be certain the city is, "well governed" and "well-led" if the earthquakes strike again. 

"Should there ever be another major emergency event again in Christchurch, it gives us an absolutely purpose-built headquarters," Adams said.

About 2000 people are expected to use the precinct each day when it is fully operational. Adams said the precinct would provide a boost for nearby businesses and cafes.

The precinct is the first of its kind in New Zealand to house emergency services, including police, communications centres, and the courts in one place.