Public Art in Central Christchurch

Floral Clock

Category: Sculpture Title: Floral Clock Foundry / fabricator: English Clock Systems Ltd, London Other collaborators: Installed by Engineering Department, Christchurch City Council Unveiling date: 5 April, 1955 Media: Plants and clock mechanism Approximate dimensions: d 8.2m Location: Situated in front of the Salvation Army Citadel Setting: Has a border of shrubs and a metal fence. Owner / administrator: Parks Unit, Christchurch City Council

The floral clock was gifted to the citizens of Christchurch on 5 April, 1955 by the Calder Mackay Company in conjunction with the Christchurch Beautifying Association. The impetus behind the donation was the Calder Mackay's celebration of their 25th anniversary in 1953.¹

The clock mechanisms were made by English Clock Systems Ltd, who were based in London. Installation work of the mechanisms was done by Christchurch Council engineers. The face of the clock is 8.2 metres in diameter and requires about 14 000 plants each year for the floral design. Two plantings are undertaken per year with a different pattern for each one, there is a planting in the autumn and another in spring. This system provides a floral effect all year round.

After discussions concerning the placement for the clock it was decided to locate it outside the Salvation Army citadel, beside the Parkroyal. This spot in Victoria Square meant it was keeping prestigious company with other Christchurch public monuments.

Later in the year problems were encountered with vandalism to the clock face, so the council made the decision to fence the clock in an effort to protect it.

¹Brittenden, W.J.A; Christchurch in Colour, (Christchurch, Bascands Ltd, 1973). p6.

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