20 February 2013 Media Release
Call for Government to Work More Closely with Local Communities
Rebuild Christchurch Foundation head Deon Swiggs is calling on the Government to increase its focus on suburban
communities in Christchurch as it continues rebuilding the city.
“As we approach the second anniversary of the February 22nd quake, there must be a focus on strengthening and growing
our communities as part of the long term goals of the rebuild,” he says.
“Major, life-changing decisions have been made by the Government, altering the outcomes for thousands of residents, and
from our daily role working alongside so many of those people and organisations Rebuild Christchurch knows many
Cantabrians would welcome the opportunity to be more actively involved in the decision-making process,” says Swiggs.
At the heart of the Rebuild Christchurch Foundation’s work is a philosophy that encourages empowered, resilient
communities to act and participate in moving forward, placing those communities at the heart of the social and political
discussions.
Swiggs says that a strong partnership between Cantabrians and the Government is essential if the community is to move
forward. He stresses however that this is a two way dialogue.
“For progress to occur there must be true collaboration between decision-makers and residents. Important decisions are
being made every day and these decisions need us all to be genuinely and democratically involved. As time has passed,
the hearts of Cantabrians living, working and rebuilding Christchurch are also healing. We’re stronger now from our
experiences and are looking to the future, and we want the Government to respect the fact that the people of
Christchurch are our biggest asset to rebuilding a future-proofed city; not only for us and our children but for the
generations ahead of us”, he says.
Swiggs adds that Christchurch and its people are ready to look ahead to the future and that the Rebuild Christchurch
Foundation is ready, willing and able and to be a part of a true partnership approach to decisions about the future of
Christchurch; suburbs and CBD together.
Background
The Foundation was established following the launch and ongoing success of rebuildchristchurch.co.nz. The Foundation facilitates community engagement and communication though the Rebuild Christchurch website, providing
service delivery, volunteer co-ordination and service to assist with the rebuild of Christchurch and Canterbury
following the earthquakes of 2010 and 2011. For more information visit www.foundation.rebuildchristchurch.co.nz