Christchurch’s official wizard was not just a man in robes wandering the square.

Ian Brackenbury Channell had already become a familiar public figure in Cathedral Square before the city formally brought him into its promotional identity. In 1998, Christchurch City Council contracted him to provide “acts of wizardry” and wizard-like services for the city, reportedly paying him $16,000 a year.

That is what makes the story so unusual.

Plenty of cities have mascots, street performers, local legends, or quirky public figures. Christchurch went a step further and folded one into the city’s official image. For a while, the Wizard was not just entertainment. He was part of the city’s personality.

The contract ended in 2021 after 23 years, but by then the odd little arrangement had already become part of Christchurch history.

It is a reminder that places are remembered for more than buildings, streets, and signs.

Sometimes a city becomes unforgettable because it lets one strange character belong.