The gun emplacements damaged in the February 22, 2011, earthquake have been reinstated at the Godley Head coastal defence battery.
Built in 1939, the battery is ranked as one of the top 10 New Zealand coastal defence heritage sites.
In the early years of World War 2, people living in Canterbury were comforted by the fact the two six-inch, long-range guns ensured the area was not defenceless against a surprise attack.
The fort was once staffed by more than 400 men and women and was a self-contained community, featuring three gun emplacements, two searchlights, a plotting room and two radars.
It was closed in 1963, but the gun emplacements, seven military buildings and several other features remain.
Said Department of Conservation Mahaanui operations manager Andy Thompson: “Generations of Cantabrians have learnt about Christchurch’s role in World War 2 by visiting Awaroa.
"The site has now been repaired and upgraded and visitors are already beginning to rediscover its secrets.”
More than $300,000 was spent strengthening and upgrading the site. A further $140,000 was spent on graffiti removal, security cameras and graffiti guarding.
Lighting was also installed in the underground ammunition stores to enhance visitors' experiences.
Ngāti Wheke walked people from the gate of the gun placements onto the site with a mihi whakatau, karakia and waiata.
Artist Wongi Wilson also spoke at the event about the mural he has created at the site.
The restored coastal defence battery will add to the experience of tourists and other visitors to Godley Head. With 100,000 annual visitors, including 4500 people staying at DOC’s Godley Head campsite last season, the popular heritage area generated about $3 million for the Christchurch economy.
