Everyone likes woollen socks and most people love a lamb roast. In this building from 1962 the auctioneers’ podium has become a lectern for preaching; the square plan that handled hectic rural auctions now accommodates a Chinese religious congregation with ease. The skylight and stairs are exciting architectural moves in an otherwise stolid structure built for endurance like a tight-head prop. In a post-earthquake city, this building has reinforced to the public the message that architecture can endure adversity.