Council finalist in International Urban Innovation Award

Christchurch City Council's 'Christchurch: Our Ever Evolving City' initiative has been shortlisted for a prestigious urban innovation award.

'Christchurch: Our Ever Evolving City' is one of 15 initiatives shortlisted for Guangzhou International Award for Urban Innovation (Guangzhou Award) from a total of 209 initiatives were submitted from 159 cities and 55 countries.

"I'm absolutely delighted that we have been selected as a finalist for this particular award. Being innovative and trying new ways of doing things is what the Council strives for," says Mayor Lianne Dalziel.

Mayor Dalziel says being shortlisted in a competitive field reflects the high calibre and standard of work and commitment of Council staff.

"The Transitional City Projects have contributed real benefits for Christchurch residents. Through the Council's 2011 'Share an Idea' campaign the community's vision for a liveable, vibrant and prosperous city is taking shape. Since the earthquakes a number of transitional community initiatives were proposed. Through the support of the Council and with the commitment and volunteer hours from the community many of these wonderful initiatives have now been realised."

Representing the Mayor, Councillor Paul Lonsdale travelled to Guangzhou, China on Monday 24 November to make a presentation to the delegates on the Christchurch transitional projects. The City of Guangzhou is covering the travel and accommodation costs of Councillor Lonsdale and a member of staff.

The Guangzhou Award aims to reward innovations to improve the socio-economic environments in cities and regions, promote sustainability and advance the livelihood of their citizens. Presented biennially, the award will encourage and recognise outstanding innovative projects and practices in the public sector.

The Secretariat of the Guangzhou Award has launched online voting for the 15 shortlisted cities. Visit the Guangzhou official website www.guangzhouaward.org to vote.

The Guangzhou Award Ceremony will be held on Friday 28 November 2014 in Guangzhou, China

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