In February 2011, Christchurch was hit with, yet another, massive earthquake. This earthquake was so strong that the city prone to earthquakes fell to the ground. 185 people lost their lives and thousands more lost their homes and businesses. Walking through Christchurch, I got mixed feelings. I was walking through the business area, not the housing area so I couldn't help but think about how many businesses were forced to shut down because of the earthquake damage and how many more were forced to shutdown as a result of most citizens moving out of Christchurch. On the other hand, I saw indications that a strong community remained. Construction fencing was decorated with colorful pieces of art. I saw many signs and buildings indicating that, slowly but surely, the city was rebuilding. Maybe I just got this vibe because I'm rather optimistic but I also felt like the city saw this as an opportunity to make the layout how they wanted it to be. Put buildings, roads, parking lots and parks where they want them to be. Sure, its expensive but how many cities wish they had this kind of a chance?
Later on in the hostel I watched When A City Falls, a powerful movie about the earthquake. Among many other things, I learned from this movie that since the February 2011 earthquake, Christchurch has had more than 7,600 smaller earthquakes and aftershocks. More than ever before, I appreciated my home back in Canada.
Christchurch was built around this Cathedral in the 1800s
Based on testimonials in the movie, many members of the congregation struggled to retain hope after seeing their building be declared a 'red zone' (unsafe to enter). Recently, they set up a temporary worship building which they have named "Cardboard Cathedral".
One of the many buildings being built
I stayed in the jailhouse again and this is what a cell used to look like when it was used as a jail instead of as a hostel
No comments:
Post a Comment