Christchurch Mayor Phil Mauger says people living in the Bexley red zone will not be forced out immediately, despite long term plans to transform the area.

Around 30 people are currently living in makeshift conditions in the former residential area, with some asking the council to allow them to remain through winter.

Mauger said planned stopbank and wetland work would not begin until later in the year.

“As far as the wetland work goes, that’s not going to be done before springtime,” he said.

He questioned whether the land would ultimately be developed as a wetland, describing parts of it as elevated compared to surrounding areas.

“That land that they’re on is actually quite high and I’d be surprised if we do dig it all out and turn it into a wetland,” he said.

Mauger said the council had made it clear the arrangement was temporary, but he did not support removing people abruptly.

“Everyone’s been told this is not a permanent solution, it’s temporary, but I for one don’t think that we should go down booting people out,” he said.

He said support services were active in the area, including outreach from the Christchurch City Mission and council staff.

“The people aren’t being left to their own devices, we’re trying to look after them as best we can,” he said.

Mauger acknowledged the risks heading into colder months, but said many of those in the area had previously found alternative accommodation.

“Some of those people would have lived somewhere last winter, they just happen to be in the red zone now,” he said.

He said some individuals preferred the location, adding to the complexity of finding solutions.

South Island Passenger Rail 

The Mayor also backed efforts to explore passenger rail options in the South Island, praising private operators working with KiwiRail.

“I take my hat off to Mainland Rail, they’ve grabbed the ball and run with it,” he said.

He said a service connecting Christchurch with other centres could ease travel demand, particularly for major events.

“If it stacks up financially, I’m sure they’ll do it and we’ll give them as much support as we can because any different mode of travel is good,” he said.

Boost in international visitors

Mauger also responded to suggestions that international visitors could help fund major projects such as the Cathedral.

He said similar ideas were being explored elsewhere.

“The museum are thinking along those lines for international people to help fund it,” he said.

He said one option could involve redirecting existing funding.

“We could use some of that towards either one of these iconic buildings,” he said, referring to central city projects.

On council leadership, Mauger said maintaining momentum would be key following the departure of the chief executive.

“It’s very important that we have someone who keeps us rolling along at the speed we’re at,” he said.

He said public feedback on the long term plan had been largely constructive.

“There’s been a lot of good positive stuff come through,” he said.

Mauger also praised young volunteers after attending a St John training event over the weekend.

“I’ve never seen such a group of young energetic people getting stuck right into it,” he said.

“The work that goes on with these young people is absolutely outstanding.”