2019 I nga wa o mua - Lizzie Matunga

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Context: The Ōtākaro/Avon River is an incredibly important part of Christchurch’s identity. It is a place of significance for Maori, as it is historically an important mahinga kai site and form of transportation. It also provides an opportunity to connect Christchurch, as it runs through many suburbs, the city and out to the ocean. In 2011 a large area of Christchurch was left in disrepair after a 7.1 magnitude earthquake hit the city (Potter, Becker, Johnston & Rossiter, 2015). Since then we have seen buildings and homes be demolished and empty space take over. Throughout much of the destruction people have left the city and relocated elsewhere. A substantial amount of land has been left empty, also known as the ‘red zone’. Most of the red zoned land is located in close proximity to the banks of the Ōtākaro/Avon River. With this unused land there is an opportunity to re-connect communities and neighbourhoods with each other and create a space that celebrates learning, whanau, food, activities and culture.

Design Goal: Connecting people with place by celebrating and acknowledging places of cultural and historical significance.