We’re all here in the same waka
OPINION: It is traditional at this time of the year to reflect on what has been accomplished and to ponder the year ahead.
For me it is an opportunity to reflect on my first two months in post as chief executive of ChristchurchNZ.
The transition from editor of The Press to public servant has been interesting and many people have been asking me in the past few weeks what it feels like to be ‘‘on the other side’’ of public scrutiny. This is a really good question, but to answer this I observe that there are no sides to this relationship.
Instead, there are groups of people who play different roles, all ideally serving the public.
Journalists are motivated by serving the public interest – they act as the eyes and ears of the people and help ensure that there is scrutiny of public spending.
Public servants work for their communities through the provision of public services and amenities, and by enabling and promoting a safe and vibrant city with a strong economy.
What is common to the vast majority of those who work in local government and the media is a desire to do good.
I see these same attributes also in the South Island business community. I also see an increasing understanding that success and sustainability are measured in environmental and social terms, as well as financial.
We all have our roles to play, but it is only when we view ourselves as a collective that we start to see the benefits of our collective endeavours.
And when we work effectively and openly together we can tackle big grunty problems.
Christchurch has the capacity for significant further growth over the next 18 months and can be the solution to New Zealand’s urban development planning.
When compared with Auckland and Wellington, Christchurch is an attractive proposition.
Our house prices are stable, we have had significant investment in our infrastructure, our broadband rollout is almost complete, and our commercial rentals are notably lower. We are the second largest city in New Zealand and the largest urban centre in the South Island, and we have strong international connectivity.
We are a great place for businesses and people to relocate, innovate, reinvent and grow successful businesses and careers, and achieve a great work-life balance.
Our city has proven it can tackle disruption head on and is emerging as a place to experiment and try new things across business, society and the environment. And we will continue to improve.
The list of attractions and projects under way across the public and private sectors creates a picture of a good year ahead. To come in the next 18 months:
❚ The Terrace riverfront hospitality precinct with 20 restaurants and bars.
❚ Tu¯ ranga, Christchurch Central Library – the largest library in the South Island, with five floors including a hands-on technology and innovation zone, a cafe, and a children’s playground.
❚ The restoration of Victoria Square.
❚ Rauora Park, which has just opened and is the third largest green space in the central city.
❚ A three-level Hoyts entertainment complex, located opposite the Bus Interchange, including four cinema screens and a food precinct with 16 dining outlets.
❚ Restoration work on the Christchurch Town Hall, including the upgrading of worldclass performance venue, function and events spaces.
❚ The expansion of Ballantynes’ new building, with covered walkways linking to The Crossing, the Riverside Farmers Market and new car parking.
Our house prices are stable, we have had significant investment in our infrastructure, our broadband rollout is almost complete, and our commercial rentals are notably lower.
So, to answer the question, how does it feel on the other side? The answer is simple.
It feels good because everywhere I look I see people working extremely hard to confront problems head on and to realise the Christchurch and Canterbury that we all deserve. Merry Christmas, Christchurch.
❚ Joanna Norris is the chief executive of ChristchurchNZ, the Christchurch City Council’s economic development arm.