Pohutukawa, Clifton Bay, Sumner: still not saved.

Speaking for Christchurch’s Heritage and Notable Trees

You’ve “probably” noticed that I’m hitting the tree message hard at present — and it occurred to me that you might be wondering why.

Partly it’s simple logistics: I support the campaign and the Give A Little fundraiser, so I’m “getting in behind” both ( as we like to say in Kiwi parlance.) And there are now only two days left with the Give A Little, today and tomorrow, and a long way further to go to hit the fundraising target.  So there’s that.

The reason why I support the campaign, though? That’s pretty simple, too. A huge part of Christchurch’s built environment, particularly heritage buildings, has been lost as a direct consequence of the 2010 – 2011 earthquakes. By and large, though, the city’s trees, including its wonderful collection of Heritage and Notable trees, have survived the destruction — and provide a great sense of continuity and also reassurance:  that something of value has not only survived but continues to flourish.

As you may know, I live  in one areas that was harder hit by the earthquakes, so in the middle of so much destruction and loss the trees’ have been a tremendous comfort and inspiration to (also) keep going.

The wonderful Yaldhurst blue gum

I do feel that anything of such value that has survived the destruction and loss  should be valued more highly as a consequence, not less.

So that’s why I’m backing this campaign and speaking for the trees. I hope you’ll check out the Give A Little and consider backing it too.

Help Us Save Christchurch’s Heritage and Notable Trees

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For tomorrow: I’ll give you a respite from trees & instead feature another deleted scene from Daughter of Blood.