Implosion of Radio Network House

The Radio Network House implosion involved a 14-story office tower demolished using strategically positioned explosives throughout the structure. The building had sustained irreparable damage from the 2011 earthquake and required removal to clear the site.

The office tower was built in 1986 and stood for 25 years before the 2011 earthquake caused severe structural damage. The implosion occurred later as a significant step in rebuilding the city center following the disaster.

The structure originally served the broadcasting industry when built in 1986 and became a focal point during the city's recovery period. The demolition drew crowds who witnessed a pivotal moment in the reconstruction following the earthquake.

The demolition required a safety exclusion zone of about 200 meters around the building to protect spectators and nearby structures. Seismic monitoring equipment tracked ground movements during the event to ensure the procedure remained controlled.

This was the first building implosion in New Zealand's history, establishing a method for removing structures in earthquake-prone regions. The event demonstrated that such techniques could be applied effectively in both urban and other contexts.

Location: Canterbury Region

GPS coordinates: -43.53060,172.64100

Latest update: December 12, 2025 12:01