Fo Guang Shan Buddhist Temple
The International Buddhist Association Centre on Riccarton Road is a purpose built community centre that includes a vegetarian café, art gallery, library and prayer hall.
The façade of Indian sandstone and bronze statues were modelled on the Dunhuang Caves, a series of over 400 ancient Buddhist temples cut into the rock face in north-west China. The three wings behind the façade were constructed by precast and in-situ concrete.
The $4.5 million building was constructed to the latest "green" rating standards, with sustainable timbers complete with many windows for natural light and solar heating. The building has been awarded by the New Zealand Institute of Architects in the 'Community and Cultural Sector'.