Twelve Local Heroes, Christchurch

The Twelve Local Heroes is a significant series of bronze busts located in Christchurch, sculpted by Mark Whyte. This collection celebrates twelve eminent individuals from Christchurch who have made notable contributions in their respective fields during the latter part of the 20th century. Originally placed in the central city on Worcester Boulevard outside the Arts Centre, these sculptures pay homage to the diverse talents and achievements of local personalities, spanning various sectors and disciplines.

The project was spearheaded by the Twelve Local Heroes charitable trust and took four years of planning and preparation before coming to fruition. The official unveiling of the bronze busts took place on 18 March 2009, marking a significant addition to the cultural landscape of Christchurch.

The sculptures were temporarily moved from Worcester Boulevard to facilitate post-earthquake restoration on the Engineering block of the Arts Centre of Christchurch. In January 2023, coinciding with the University of Canterbury's 150th anniversary, they were relocated to the university campus in Ilam. They will remain there for two years to honor Christchurch citizens. This relocation maintains visibility and aligns with the University of Canterbury's commemorative and educational goals, providing a tangible link to local heritage for students and visitors.