Christchurch is not my city, and (although nominally an Anglican) Christchurch Cathedral is not my church. Also, I have little money to contribute to any restoration project that goes ahead. Ultimately, it’s not my decision to make. But I think we should restore Christchurch Cathedral.
Late yesterday afternoon my son took me to see the centre of Christchurch. We parked on Manchester Street. I didn’t even recognise it. Christchurch is a city of rubble and parking lots. The devastation is immense. Nearly two and a half years after the February 2011 earthquake that killed 185 people, restoration of the CBD has hardly even started. I was moved to tears. It’s heartbreaking, and I’m a Wellingtonian.
The Cathedral is the heart of Christchurch. I think it would be good for the people of Christchurch to see the Cathedral restored. If it’s what the Anglican Diocese of Christchurch wants, I hope they restore the Cathedral to its former glory sooner rather than later.
Also in The Weekend Press, Mayor Parker quits.