The Association was founded in 1922 by Dr James Hight and Miss Alice Candy, who then comprised the History Department of Canterbury University College. Although the Association went into recess during the 1940s, it was revived in 1953 by Professor Neville Phillips and W.J. Gardner. The Association’s aim was the fostering of public interest in history and historical issues.

The Association was based in the School of History at the University of Canterbury, where it held regular meetings for the discussion of historical issues. The Association promoted historical research and writing through the J M Sherrard Award in New Zealand local and regional history.

The CHA was formally wound up in 2024-2025. A Memorandum of Understanding developed between the CHF and the CHA at that time. The Foundation wishes to honour the legacy of the Canterbury Historical Association in the following ways:

• By continuing the annual Geoff Rice Lecture
• By using the funds of the J.M. Sherrard Award to support the publication of works in New Zealand local and regional history

The Canterbury History Foundation also extends a cordial welcome to members of the Canterbury Historical Association who wish to transfer their membership to the Foundation.