The River of Flowers has grown from small beginnings to become a key way that communities come together to commemorate the 2011 earthquake.
On this anniversary, Cantabrians once again have the opportunity to share their experiences and hopes for the future as part of the River of Flowers commemoration.
Healthy Christchurch is no longer involved with the River of Flowers. The River of Flowers is now being run by Flourish Inc.
Visit the Flourish Inc website for more information on the River of Flowers, including a site list.
Like the River of Flowers on Facebook for the latest information.
Feedback on the River of Flowers
- "Very simple, but very powerful and moving, just wonderful".
Di, Avonside resident
- Very moving. When all the contractors drove up in their trucks on the other river bank and all got out and gathered as a group, that was a special moment… and when the Dragon Boat went by.
Nicki, Riverside resident
- "They were very upset but it was good for them to finally let it all go - they are now much the better for it."
Jeff, father of two teenagers
How and Why the River of Flowers was created
The inaugural River of Flowers was held on 22nd February 2012 and was led by Healthy Christchurch and the Avon-Otakaro Network (AvON). The event provides communities with the opportunity to reflect on the last few years and look forward to the future.
The River of Flowers is an opportunity to:
- come together as a city through a river of flowers
- let go through dropping flowers into the river
- hold two minutes of silence to remember those who have died, been injured, or who have lost their homes
- write notes of hope and post them on a tree of hope
- acknowledge the importance of the river(s) in the life and heritage of the city
- give a token of respect back to the river(s)
- show the connections between communities - particularly those most affected
- celebrate our strength - resilience and supporting one another