The University of Canterbury and student's association still need a further $5m to reopen the UCSA building badly damaged in the 2011 earthquake.
The University of Canterbury Students' Association (UCSA) is starting a fundraising campaign for the new building at a reunion for former student executive members in August.
The existing building designed by architect Sir Miles Warren in the late 1960, is due to be demolished next month so construction can begin.
The Ngaio Marsh performance theatre will be housed in the new building, which will include social, hospitality, meeting, club/society, office and event spaces. The outdoor amphitheatre overlooking the Avon River will also be retained.
Both the UCSA and university have put money towards the building and UCSA president James Addington says donations have also started to come in.
"We know a lot of people have memories associated with the existing UCSA building and are keen to see future generations of UC students have those same opportunities and experiences," he says.
An artist impression of the interior of the UCSA building (UCSA)
The Chair of the UCSA Building Fundraising Committee David Caygill CNZM, a former MP and UCSA President in 1971, says the UCSA is recognised by many as an important part of student life at UC.
"The new UCSA building will be a place where current and future generations of UC students can meet and engage, it will be a pivotal part of their UC experience," he says.
Current students had a say in the design of the new building, which Addington describes as "accessible, inviting and fun".
It's scheduled to be opened in 2019.
You can make a donation here.
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