A learning centre to "showcase and inspire" the creation of technology and creative arts is set to open in Invercargill next year.
The Southern Institute of Technology Creative Centre is taking shape on the corner of Tay and Deveron Sts at St John’s Anglican Church site.
The $17million project will be a teaching space for film, animation, game design, fashion and music programmes.
But SIT acting chief executive Maree Howden said the building was more than that.
It was a place for the community to be part of with a revitalised church, an open-plan building to host events and a cafe.
"It is a place where the students can show their work and allow the community to be involved, giving their criticism and feedback.
"It is an opportunity for both the public and academic body to merge in a type of hub."
Strengthening work was being carried out to the church and the new space would accommodate up to 400 students.
Construction was expected to be completed in September, with the centre ready for its first intake of students in February 2022.
