Media Release - 19/09/18

Small steps in support of a Green Spine

· A new project on River Road aims to raise awareness of the many benefits of native plants on urban riverbanks. In response to the unprecedented opportunity to restore native riparian habitat throughout the proposed ‘Green Spine’, Greening the Rubble and Avon-Ōtākaro Network have been working together on ‘Riverbend Refuge’.

· The project aims to demonstrate urban riparian planting and the associated benefits for creatures great and small. It will include signage and enhanced amenities to attract people into the space.

· ‘What’s really delightful about this project, is that it’s building on so much cultural history’ relayed Jane Ash, coordinator for Greening the Rubble ‘From a rich Mahinga Kai resource to a treasured refuge for neighbouring residents, there are thriving post earthquake ‘guerilla’ plantings and now we’re adding another layer to this story.’

· ‘The location on River Road is delightful as the river bank widens around a bend and there are many large trees.’ relayed Jane Ash, coordinator for Greening the Rubble ‘It’s clearly been a treasured place for residents of the red zone so building on this, we hope to encourage more native wildlife and create some really inviting places for people’

· Evan Smith, spokesperson for Avon-Ōtākaro Network, can see long-lasting benefits, ‘there has been enormous community support for greening in the red zone as evident from the various feedback opportunities provided by both the community and Regenerate Christchurch. This project extends the work we have already accomplished in Anzac Drive Reserve in the Burwood red zone.’’

· He adds, ‘I was red zoned from nearby this spot and it has always been a tranquil place for time out and reflection, long may this continue.’

· The space has been made available for transitional use by the Christchurch City Council and the concept and planting design were completed by Steffan Kraberger of Wood Ltd.

· ENDS

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