Post Earthquake Rebuild - Exploring the new Christchurch

We had renewed energy after a wonderful night's sleep. We caught the bus outside Hornby Hub and 30 minutes later arrived in the modern Central Bus Station right in the centre of Christchurch.
Around every corner were signs of the earthquake devastation 10 years ago.
Large vacant areas, where once were multistoried buildings, had become city carparks with professionally painted murals, or, more often, with graffiti.

.                                 
                 The once impressive cathedral in the centre of the city, is slowly being restored
Major buildings that had to be demolished have, over the last few years, arisen from the rubble and are wonderful examples of modern architecture.
The City Library opened in 2019 and it is very impressive. Balconies on the 4th floor allow a bird's eye
view of the developments below.
                                                                  The children's area is bright and stimulating.
                                                 
                                                                     The Law Courts
                                                
                                  The tram takes visitors on a circular trip around the city centre.

After a coffee stop, we wandered along the banks of the Avon River, which is edged with a multitude of fashionable eateries, much like Auckland's Viaduct Basin.

All in all we love Christchurch, its CBD and the suburbs we have seen. From the horrors of an earthquake, a new, vibrant city is gradually emerging.

Comments

  1. Harry WhorwoodFebruary 8, 2021 at 9:00 PM

    Good that Del’s picked up a quick part-time job on the street cleaner, keeps him on the streets!

    Thanks for the tour, most impressive, especially (almost obviously) the Cathedral. I seem to recall a connection with Christchurch and Del- visited, was going to, didn’t, at about the Earthquake time on one of his solo trips. I like what I’ve seen, our sort of place, and Wiki has extensive coverage of the ’Quake itself, so more reading!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. CindyFebruary 8, 2021 at 9:11 PM

      Yes, Del was actually cycling from Cape Reinga (top of NZ) to the Bluff (bottom of NZ) when the earthquake occurred. He was in Oamaru in the South Island. Didn't feel the tremor but saw ripples on puddles.

      Delete
  2. Harry WhorwoodFebruary 8, 2021 at 9:04 PM

    I was mulling your “number eight wire” comment. It was very much needed by the Country when we abandoned you in the seventies to join the EEC, wasn’t it?!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. CindyFebruary 8, 2021 at 9:14 PM

      Sure was and NZ began strengthening trade with the East and Middle East. Never looked back!

      Delete
  3. CindyFebruary 8, 2021 at 9:20 PM

    Yes. NZ then strengthened trade agreements with the East and Middle East. Never looked back.

    ReplyDelete
  4. KimFebruary 9, 2021 at 2:16 AM

    Christchurch is beautiful isn’t it, so glad you’re enjoying your time there xx

    ReplyDelete

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