This is a beautiful commemorative book of the most significant heritage buildings/precincts or landmarks of Christchurch that have been lost or badly damaged in the earthquakes. It is a true celebration of Christchurch, the way it used to be, and covers the history of each building/area, its architectural context, a number of photos of each place taken over time, and discussion of its future.

The buildings include the best known heritage buildings in the inner city such as Christchurch Cathedral, the Catholic Cathedral, the Arts Centre, The Press building, Provincial Chambers, Cranmer Court, Christs College, many churches, the city squares and many other places. It also covers other buildings dear to Chistchurch but lesser-known outside the city, such as the old Woods flour mill in Addington and the Caledonian Hall.

Some buildings aren't grand but are so much a part of the city that they'll be badly missed, like the rows of old shops in Sydenham and Colombo Street and landmarks such as the Carlton Hotel and the Sumner Town Hall. In addition the book covers the ruined Shag Rock at the mouth of the Estuary, Castle Rock and Monck's Cave.