A new town square has been opened in the heart of Lyttelton, one of the first civic spaces to be developed since the 2011 earthquake destroyed much of the town.
Photo: RNZ / Nicola Grigg
The $2.8 million square sits on the site of the former landmark Albion Hotel, and incorporates local materials, including timber from Lyttelton Port's former Cattle Jetty.
The Christchurch City councillor for Banks Peninsula, Andrew Turner said the project had been delivered on time and under budget.
"To see something amazing like this actually come to fruition, you know we've dreamed it, we've talked about it, we've drawn it on bits of paper, here it is in flesh and it's just fantastic."
Mr Turner said the council and community recognised the need for a new square, where people could come together after the devastation of the quakes.
Andrew Turner (centre) was one of those who cut the ribbon to open the square. Photo: RNZ / Nicola Grigg
Central to the new square is the town's War Memorial Cenotaph, which has been repaired using money donated by naval personnel who came to the town's aid in the immediate aftermath of the earthquake.