The rebuilding of Christchurch's earthquake-ravaged CBD has been delayed by several years, but residents will soon get a high-tech preview of what’s to come.

The Canterbury Earthquake Recovery Authority (CERA) says it will create a set of 3D models of the future city, rendering the future visions of many prominent spots in small-scale plastic.

It comes as the NZ Government announces delays of up to three years on key projects, including the new Metro Sports Facility and Convention Centre.

In the meantime, CERA is working with 3D-printing suppliers to fabricate models of the facilities and surrounding areas.

“The design concept for the Recovery Plan is the development of a greener, more accessible city, with a compact core and a stronger built identity,” a tender document explains.

“The visual perspective of a building or built precinct that can be achieved with a physical model is a unique experience, and when combined with its physical presence creates a tangible experience for the viewer.

“In this context, a physical model will assist the general public to observe, understand, measure, and engage with Anchor Projects, as well as providing a point of interest and opportunity to gain knowledge for visitors.”

The models will help inform developers and investors too, while also providing a tool for planners, urban designers, and architects.

“Over time, a model will also contribute to a visual record of the recovery of Christchurch Central City,” the document says.

While the NZ Government wants a 3D-printed model of buildings, the US Government wants 3D-printed buildings.

NASA has launched a competition to design and build a 3D-printed habitat for deep space exploration, creating sustainable housing for Earth, Mars and beyond.

The multi-phase competition has a $US2.25 million prize pool.

In the first phase, participants will develop state-of-the-art architectural concepts for NASA’s cutting-edge printers.

In the second phase, participants will investigate use of indigenous materials and recyclables to save on materials, and then fabricate full-scale habitats to test their ideas.

More details on the NASA competition are available here.