River reflections

THE OPENING OF TE PAE, THE CHRISTCHURCH Convention Centre, on 16 December 2021, auspiciously the 171st anniversary of the arrival of the first Canterbury Association settlers in Lyttelton, marks an important stage in Christchurch’s recovery from the earthquakes of a decade ago. Conceived as one of the anchor projects that formed part of the 2012 Christchurch Central Recovery Plan, or ‘Blueprint’ as it became known, the convention centre was intended to act as a major driver in the city’s recovery. However, the inevitable delays involved in planning and delivering such a large project mean that the promised, post-quake boost to the city’s economy has yet to be realised. In addition, the impact of Covid-19 has compounded these delays and raised questions about the viability of such venues in a warming, post-pandemic world.

Located in the heart of the central city, Te Pae sits across two former city blocks, bounded by The Square to the south, Victoria Square to the north and the Avon