There's a lot happening in our city in the lead-up to Christmas. It's a time of joy and celebration, but this year in particular it's a very emotional time.
This struck me yet again when last Saturday I took part in the first public walk from City Mall to Cathedral Square. People were generally pretty quiet as they walked through their city, pointing to former landmarks, with many astounded at the devastation that has occurred. Some cried at the sight of Christ Church Cathedral. I have been into the red zone a number of times since the February quake, but I always spot something I haven't noticed before which, as with first-time visitors, triggers my emotions. I felt that those who talk part in the walk felt empowered to be back in the central city. It was a symbolic time for our city.
The ReStart shopping precinct was packed on Saturday which wasn't surprising given that Ballantynes was unveiling its Christmas window display. This always keeps both children and adults (myself included) enthralled. Perhaps you were one of the thousands who enjoyed a wonderful night at Coca Cola Christmas in the Park. Many took the opportunity to arrive early and enjoy a family picnic before the entertainment started. Events are proving a way to bring our residents together to have fun. Santa will be back in the public spotlight again this Sunday with the annual Santa Parade being held on a new route in Riccarton.
And this weekend is shaping up to be very special. Starting tomorrow at the Clearwater Course is the BMW New Zealand Golf Open which has attracted some of the country's top golfers as well as an overseas contingent. After a difficult year and missing out on hosting Rugby World Cup it is wonderful to be able to host the country's biggest golfing event which will run over four days. The council is committed to attracting national and international sporting events to Christchurch.
We are one of the Great Wine Capitals of the World and on Saturday we have the chance to celebrate this at the New World Wine and Food Festival in Hagley Park. Fifty of the leading wineries from Central Otago, Canterbury, Waipara, Nelson and Marlborough have been selected to showcase their wines, while there will be plenty of gourmet food exhibits and entertainment.
And talking of Christchurch being on the international stage, last week the council was recognised internationally for its Share an Idea community public engagement campaign. An international consulting company nominated the Council for the award after reading about the initiative on a Dutch news website. Share an Idea was the unanimous overall winner of the Co-creation Award which recognises and celebrates the most original co-creation initiatives.
2011 is the first time that the Netherlands-based Co-creation Association has given the award to an initiative outside Europe. We were in good company with the other category winners being the international companies, Nike, Heineken and Phillips. All in all there is much to reflect on and celebrate at this very busy time.
