About Canterbury Earthquake National Memorial

The Canterbury Earthquake National Memorial is a Peaceful setting by the Avon River and Crown's official memorial. This was built in memory of people killed and seriously injured in Christchurch earthquake on 22 February 2011 It truly is a fitting tribute to those that didn't make it home that terrible day. Set beside the river it is a tranquil place to sit and reflect and remember. But also a stark reminder of how fragile life is.  As you approach the memorial from a distance it does not look like much of a memorial. However, with a seating area by the river and all the names of the 185 people who died engraved on the walls, it is a somber and fitting memorial.  This is a beautiful structure/wall that should remind all of us to slow down and enjoy life. the lives of people in Christchurch and the surrounds changed drastically with the quakes, so this is a memorial and reminder to us all. You can sit and pay respect and enjoy and contemplate your own future. The memorial is on both sides of the Avon River. Names carved onto a wall, including the many Japanese teenagers who were attending English classes in the basement of the CTV building that collapsed. This is actually a small memorial comprised of chairs commemorating the people killed in one building during the earthquake. The high chairs were heart-wrenching and make the reality of the tragedy feel very close to home. Buildings under construction, many vacant lots, remnants of buildings, shipping containers repurposed everywhere, so you realize the extent of the quake.It is truly moving and although brings back many unwanted memories of a time none of us ever want to go through again, 

Must See

  • You can sit by the riverside and have some peaceful time.
  •  It offers family, friends, and visitors a tranquil place along the beautiful Avon River to reflect
  • The "long white wall" in remembrance of the victims of the 2011 Earthquake (with their names engraved on it.
  •  Lots of tributes still adorn the base of the wall showing how fresh the pain still is in some peoples lives.
  •  Do note the large "pounamu" (greenstone or jade) boulder gifted by Ngai tahu).

How to reach

Can take a tram from Hereford St and Oxford Terrace road. Walk for 5 minutes to reach the memorial. Price is 50 NZD. distance is 15km.

Tips

  • Spend 2 minutes time to give tribute to the people who lost their lives.
  • Beautiful place on a sunny day to stroll past to remember.
  • Carry drinking water as the possibility of availability is very less.
  • Wear comfortable shoes since you need to walk a lot.
  • Carry winter wear since there is a possibility of low temperatures.
  • A very good memorial not to be missed.
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  • Be considerate in respecting the aura of that place.
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Visit Time

Sunday: Open 24 hrs.

Monday:Open 24 hrs.

Tuesday: Open 24 hrs.

Wednesday:Open 24 hrs.

Thursday:Open 24 hrs.

Friday:Open 24 hrs.

Saturday:Open 24 hrs.

 

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Waiting Time

usually none

 

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Entrance Fee

No

 

Time you can spend Icon

Time you can spend

15 minutes

 

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Weather

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