Christchurch: Two years post earthquake

Yesterday marked two years since the earthquake that destroyed many parts of Christchurch. Although I wasn’t there for it (I was in Sydney), I still feel apart of it as I have lived with the reminders of what it has done.

I think what surprised my dad the most when he was here that although it was 2 years post quake, there is still a long way to go for Christchurch to get back on its feet. Prior to arriving dad asked whether the trams were up and running again 🙁

Although in saying that, I think Christchurch has come a long way since I arrived 13 months ago. I have constantly seen more streets reopen, buildings come down and new things popping up.

Today I completed a run through the Port Hills (12km) called a run to remember, which was to remember all those who lost their lives and much more. I wore my red and black crusaders top for Canterbury. It was a difficult run, but all I could think about was the scene I saw on TV, which was pictured from the Port Hills two years ago – the huge dust cloud engulfing the city.

February 2011. Christchurch CBD from the Port Hills

February 2013: No dust, less buildings and more cranes.

A beautiful view in the Port Hills during my run

Post run sausage sizzle (sausage in bread) with Bailey (my flatmates dog) in the Park

I spent time walking around many parts of the CBD with my flatmate, after having brunch at the amazing coffee shop Black Betty’s on Manchester Street. I got a number of awesome images from things that are being redeveloped. I was able to give a pretty good commentary to my flatmate, as I constantly keep myself up to date with earthquake news through twitter and www.stuff.co.nz

Fresh flowers stuck in traffic cones to remember those who died as well as those who spent the time working to save those in fallen buildings.

Another Gap Filler in a vacant site

A Temporary Art piece on Manchester Street called ‘bands of hope’

Red and Black (Canterbury colours) holding together a dinning table. From memory it represents strength and resilience of Cantabrians to stay together as a unit despite the difficult times.

Part of the Heritage Hotel, in Cathedral Square. This is being restored and is opening Late May.

Came across a building on Gloucester Street which was closed and the windows covered with newspaper. The date on the paper is October 23rd 2010. Another part of the paper talked about the September 2010 quake and how lucky Canterbury was that no one died. February 2011 was something no one could have predicted.

New Regent Street redevelopment. Reopening date is 28th March

Gloucester Street: continued demolition work

Smile for Christchurch: a project completed by a tourist visiting New Zealand (see video below)

Yesterday I was driving around the community for work and happened to be free around 12:45, so drove round to Burwood area and sat and listened to the small service being held at the river. At 12:51 we had a two minute silence and then throw flowers into the river. It was a really special service.

When I got back in the car, one of the local radio stations was playing this song; I felt quite emotional.

As I have said in many blog posts before, I love Christchurch. It is so exciting to be living in a changing environment. I cannot wait to see how it all turns out one day. Love Christchurch. Kia Kaha (stay strong)

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Christchurch: Two years post earthquake

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