Christchurch Emotions

Evening. Christchurch, you took my breath away. Standing in the square, once alive and moving the earth with the Wizard's words and entertaining buskers, tonight you are in a deep mood, empty except for a few tourists shouting into their cellphones.

We watched your fall and rising recovery from the safety of the North Island but now, eight years later, I really understand and feel your pain. I want to take photos but feel that would be like some distant relation photographing a funeral, feeling guilty in my luck at not having to go through it. Just as tears begin, I see a bright neon sign in the darkening gloom “Everything will be alright". A statement that radiates hope and resilience on the side of the brand new Te Puna O Waiwhetu Art Gallery.

Morning. Christchurch, you take my breath away. The sun is shining illuminating steel sculptures, brightly coloured murals and wall art. Trams rattle along rails, tourists wander pointing at ruins. Today, I feel positive and alive. Christchurch, I feel your rising energy and promise to support you in any way. Coins in an earthquake recovery fund are simply not enough.

Caption: Hope. A moment of reflection from the Port Hills.