Angels to Fly in the Central City

Media Release embargoed until 7.30am Friday 9 December 2011
Angels to Fly in the Central City

What to do with three magnificent Cathedral angels without a place to hover this Christmas? Suspend them high in the air as symbols of hope for a broken CBD, thought Craig Dixon, the Cathedral’s marketing manager.

This month, three Christmas angels that previously captivated worshippers and visitors inside the Cathedral will again be prominent, although this time on a much more elevated platform. What originated as an adventurous idea has quickly been transformed into action and demonstrated the Cantabrian spirit for meeting the challenge.

A stroll near the cordon a few weeks ago drew Craig’s attention to two idle cranes sitting just inside the red zone boundary and a phone call to owner, Tim Smith of Smith’s cranes, set the wheels in motion. “We can definitely make it happen”, was the immediate response by Tim Smith who has since enthusiastically arranged for the use of two of his cranes, in prominent locations just inside the red zone.

Originally designed for indoor display, the angels have had to be treated to exterior strengthening and water protection to minimise possible damage from the elements.

Creators of the angels, Caroline and her daughter of Bizzart Rangiora, say they have conversed with many engineers to devise the best way to protect the sculptures. “They are predominantly made of fibreglass over a steel skeleton, so have a similar construction to small planes - we have discussed with aircraft engineers the best way to ensure they can withstand weather elements,” says Caroline.

The angels, Raphael, Michael and Gabriel represent hope, comfort and consolation.

However, Craig says the symbolism of these angels is not restrictive to specific beliefs or Christmas. “I believe they have a universal appeal. The notion of angels resonates with many people. They are seen a protective presence. These angels in particular, will also represent powerfully, the Cathedral’s ongoing life in the city and region.”

Dean Peter Beck says:

“Our gift of the angels for Christmas to the city is a wonderful symbol. St Luke tells us that the angel appeared to the shepherds and said to them "be not afraid; for behold I bring you goods news of great joy which will be for all the people; for to you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour who is Christ the Lord". Love came down at Christmas - not a sentimental tinsel love, but a deep, strong and powerful passion for peace with justice for all people. It is that love that will carry us through the challenges ahead of us.”

This Friday morning (9th December) the first of three angels will be lifted high above Worcester Street, directly in line with the Cathedral as observed from the fence on the edge of the CBD.

It is planned to place the second angel on the corner of Hereford Street and Oxford Terrace, near the entrance to the pop up container mall, and recently opened walkway into Cathedral Square. The location for the third is yet to be confirmed.

ENDS


The first of the Cathedral angels will be hung from a Smith’s crane this Friday 9 November, 7.30am at the corner of Worcester Street and Oxford Terrace.