Rarely-seen artworks, including models, paintings and old aerial photographs tell a story of the changing face of Ashburton in a new exhibition at the Ashburton Art Gallery and Museum.

Urban Ashburton opened on Sunday and is expected to revive many memories. The exhibition includes works of local artists like Henry Lowen-Smith and Kath von Tunzelmann, as well as wooden models of the clock tower and some historic panoramic and aerial photos of Ashburton.

Objects like cups and saucers that feature Ashburton landmarks also help tell the story of Ashburton’s built environment over the years.

The exhibition includes items from the gallery, museum and Ashburton District Council collections and was inspired by recent big changes in the urban environment – the revitalisation of the central business district, the building of the new library and civic building, the planned relocation of the rail container terminal and new businesses on South Street.

From its beginnings in 1858 as a humble ferry crossing with only an accommodation house and stables, Ashburton’s urban fabric has expanded outward across the plains from the Hakatere/Ashburton River.

Grand old buildings such as the Borough Council Chambers, the former post office with its clock tower, and the St James Theatre have long since disappeared, while other beloved heritage survives in landmarks such as the War Memorial in Baring Square, the Catholic church and, of course, the prized domain.

Ashburton Art Gallery and Museum director Shirin Khosraviani said some works in the exhibition depict buildings that have been replaced by their more modern counterparts on the same site, such as the post office and the council chambers.

"Others capture urban scenes at a particular point in time, like the historical aerial photographs by White’s Aviation of Ashburton as it appeared from above in the middle of last century. Then there are those that depict enduring aspects of Ashburton that bear witness to change, like the domain and the iconic clock tower."

She said Urban Ashburton will appeal to visitors interested in Ashburton’s history – both residents and those visiting the area.

"It may revive memories of lost aspects of the town, as well as depicting familiar scenes seen in a new light. This exhibition also allows access to rarely seen artworks, curated together from the three collections."

It will run until Sunday 3 April. The gallery will be open from 10am to 4pm daily, and until 7pm on Wednesdays. Admission is free.