The Christchurch Town Hall was opened in 1972, when its radical design, by local architects Warren and Mahoney, attracted some controversy. It is now an acknowledged masterpiece, still winning awards for its remarkable architecture. The Town Hall features six public areas, including the James Hay theater and the main auditorium, which is famous for its stunning acoustics. A major feature of the auditorium, which can seat 2000 people, is the Rieger pipe organ. The Ferrier Fountain at the rear of the complex facing Victoria Park is reminiscent of a cluster of dandelion seeds, and has long been an icon of Christchurch.
