I think Ōtautahi Christchurch is great, and I don't think we need to look like Melbourne, Amsterdam or New York. I do want to see us enjoy what we have and embrace change, for a truly livable, walkable, world class city.
13/13

Where children can walk or bike to school, where the elderly can stay in their home for as long as they want. Where you can choose to live in a standalone house with your own land, or you can choose to live in an apartment or terraced house that is close to amenities.
12/n

We don't even need to drastically change our city. Imagine a city that looks very similar to our current city, but where it is easier to get around, where housing is cheaper and in better locations. Where neighbourhood shops can thrive.
11/n

This sort of city won't just make peoples lives better due to housing and transport. We know that this sort of environment encourages community, helps people to be healthier, and makes people happier.
10/n

We have the evidence to know what tools will work. More density, in the right places, with high quality public transport and pedestrian and walking facilities. Mixed use zoning to allow cafes, shops, and offices close to homes. 30kmph speed limits on neighbourhood roads.
9/n

The city is also facing large costs as aging infrastructure needs replacing and without action we will face higher insurance costs and more homes being destroyed by climate events.
8/n

People have to commute long distances. Those who can't drive have to take slow and irregular buses or face the often unsafe and inconvenient task of walking or cycling in unfriendly places. Parents spend hours each week transporting their children. Congestion is getting worse.
7/n

However, while the status quo works for many, I wish people could see and care about those for whom it doesn't work.
Many people live in overcrowded, cold and damp homes and have to spend a large portion of their income on rent.
6/n

We have some great things currently that we don't want to lose. Many people love having a standalone house in the suburbs with their own patch of garden. Cars are very convenient. Privacy and security are important.
5/n

It's worth noting that I believe the city has been moving in the right direction. Much of my vision aligns with the strategic plans our city has, and I agree with many of the projects being developed by the public and private sectors. Progress can be slow but many things are getting better.
4/n

I want to see the city that is prepared for a changing climate while doing our fair share to reduce emissions and look after our environment. I want to live in a "15 minute city".
3/n

I want to see the city become a place with abundant housing; where everyone can choose warm, high quality housing in a location that suits them. I want to see the city be a place of access; where everyone can access their needs and wants with safe and convenient transport.
2/n