The Ōtākaro Avon River at Dallington Landing in Christchurch. Photo: RNZ / Adam Burns
More than a decade on from the Canterbury earthquakes, the government has completed the transfer of red zone land to the city council.
Crown-owned red zone land along the Ōtākaro Avon River Corridor is being returned to the council, marking the end of the government's post-earthquake responsibilities in the process.
A residential red zone is any of several areas of land in and around Christchurch which experienced severe damage in the 2010-2011 Canterbury earthquakes and were deemed infeasible to rebuild on.
Through voluntary buyouts, the Crown acquired and demolished or removed more than 8000 properties.
Speaking at an on-site event in Dallington on Thursday, Christchurch mayor Phil Mauger said it was a fantastic milestone.
"We had the earthquakes and 600-odd hectares of land damaged ... the government have done a hell of a lot of work," Mauger said.
"We've had it back in about 10 parcels, we've got it all back and we've got it back for nothing, he said.
"It is very special and I can't wait for the pathway to be done, so I can bring my grandkids along ... and just have fun out in the open space."
A number of projects are being consulted on to revitalise the banks of the river corridor, which has already been described as a significant drawcard for residents and visitors to the Garden City.
Minister for Land Information Damien O'Connor and Christchurch Mayor Phil Mauger celebrate the final handover of red-zone land from the Crown to the City Council at an event on 3 August, 2023. Photo: RNZ / Adam Burns
The transfer of ownership of the Brooklands, Southshore, South New Brighton and Port Hills regeneration areas back to the city council began three years ago.
But the size and complexity of the 5500 property titles within the corridor meant it took time.
"I've done land development with my previous life for a long time and I know how long it takes to get rid of easements," Mauger said.
"The amount of work and money it would have cost the government to get the land back to us is a big job."
Minister for Land Information Damien O'Connor, who also attended the Dallington event, said the completion of the transfer was a "major step forward".
"It goes right back to the council and the people of Christchurch and Canterbury.
"It's back in the hands of the community where it can be used for, not residential purposes, but many other options and ideas that people have come up with."