Christchurch - wildlife and earthquakes

Tue 25 Feb 2025

Today we took some time to get to know Christchurch a bit better.

We started with Willowbank wildlife reserve, which included a section on creatures native to New Zealand. Though we weren't allowed to take pictures of Kiwi in their "Nocturnal House", we saw many other creatures. 


Christchurch was devastated and is still recovering from two major earthquakes in 2010 and 2011, it is re-emerging renewed with some memories of the past there in remnants. A very nicely designed city centre in which to spend time is juxtaposed against what was there before and what is missing.


Quake City provided poignant exhibits, sharing the experiences of the human impact of the earthquakes - the anniversary only three days ago. This included personal stories, CCTV footage, and photographs of the aftermath. There was also information about the "liquefaction" caused by the ground conditions in Christchurch, which causes solid ground under buildings and roads to become liquid. 



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