Kids2Town

The Christchurch CBD was very badly affected by the earthquakes, with many parts of the city closed off while buildings were secured or familiar buildings and landmarks were demolished or made safe.

With the barriers removed, many people have not yet returned to the central city due in part to the emotional impact of the changes to the city and its buildings, and to a perceived lack of amenity in the central city. The outcome is that a whole generation of children are growing up without experiencing the inner city.

Between Rātā Foundation and the Christchurch City Council (CCC), funding was made available to help to bring Christchurch kids into town. This was a good example of collaboration between us and the Christchurch City Council to engage and make positive things happen.

The objective of bringing children to the centre of the city is to encourage them to be optimistic for the future of central Christchurch, and perhaps to act as family trail-blazers and catalyse the return of their family.