Contractors began digging the foundations for the Anglican Church’s new base in Christchurch, popularly known as the cardboard cathedral, on Tuesday.
A spokesperson for the earthquake-damaged Christ Church Cathedral, Reverend Craig Dixon, says he heard on Monday building consent for the foundations of the temporary replacement had been granted.
Rev Dixon says work on the foundations of the transitional cathedral began on Tuesday morning.
He says it was originally thought the foundations would cost $150,000, but as details of the design emerged it became apparent the cost will be closer to $600,000.
Rev Dixon says fundraising for about $1.2 million will be necessary for the entire building, in addition to the $4m already set aside.
He says help is coming from as far away as Adelaide and Britain, and he is confident the transitional cathedral will be standing by Christmas.