"It is with sad news that I note the passing of Christchurch Architect Peter Beaven. As Chair of Historic Places Canterbury I would like to publicly acknowledge the outstanding contribution by Peter Beaven to New Zealand Architecture. This contribution was matched by his powerful advocacy for the preservation of Christchurch and New Zealand's built heritage. Christchurch Heritage and Architecture has lost someone very special with
Peter Beaven's passing."
Mark Gerrard, Chair Historic Places Canterbury
[A statement made to the full Christchurch City Council before an Annual Plan submission.]

"Peter Beaven's architectural work received many accolades from his many clients and the Architectural Profession for whom he was a rousing advocate. His pioneering Canterbury modernism, acknowledged as an influence on New Zealand Architecture, was informed by a deep knowledge of our Christchurch past. I recall in one of his presentations  where he had included a widow's walk as an architectural feature in one his built houses. Peter Beaven was a spirited publicly outspoken tireless advocate for Architecture, good Urban Design and the preservation of our built heritage. He was instrumental in the founding of the Christchurch Civic Trust. He involved himself in a number of Heritage battles, the establishment of the Arts Centre,  the Museum Revitalization, the Arts Centre Music auditorium are just a few for whom  he sallied forth from his studio in the Provincial Council Building to defend Christchurch's built heritage. Away from the very public Christchurch debates, Peter freely made himself available to address groups, of any size, on Architecture, Urban Design and our Heritage. He was an exuberant public speaker and his impromptu speaking style verged almost on poetic when he was conducting tours of his beloved Mountfort Provincial Council Chambers. Christchurch has lost someone very special with his passing."
Mark Gerrard Chair Historic Places Canterbury