Christchurch has emerged as a potential location for the National Erebus Memorial, with three sites now under consideration by the Ministry for Culture and Heritage.
The move follows a formal invitation from Christchurch Mayor Phil Mauger in December 2024 for the city to host the memorial, which will honour the 257 people who died in the 1979 Air New Zealand Flight TE901 crash on Mt Erebus in Antarctica.
This week, Ministry for Culture and Heritage shared the potential Christchurch locations with Erebus families for feedback. They are:
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The Ōtākaro Avon Riverbank, on either side of the river near the Robert Scott Memorial
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Cracroft Reserve, near the Sign of the Takahe
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St James’ Church grounds in Harewood, which the Ministry says will require further investigation and consultation with key stakeholders
The Ministry stressed that no final decision has been made on whether Christchurch will host the memorial or which of the three proposed sites might be selected.
Mayor Mauger said Christchurch, with its long-standing connection to Antarctica, understands the depth of the loss.
“Christchurch is a city that has experienced tragedy and understands the deep impact the Erebus disaster continues to have on people across Aotearoa,” Mauger said. “We feel a deep sense of responsibility to honour the lives of your loved ones with great care and quiet dignity.”
Secretary for Culture and Heritage Leauanae Laulu Mac Leauanae said the Ministry is committed to the project and is working closely with Erebus families, mana whenua, and other stakeholders.
“The feedback from the Erebus families regarding the potential sites in Christchurch will be carefully considered,” he said.
“We are committed to building this memorial – for the people who lost loved ones, for New Zealanders, and for those here and overseas impacted by the Erebus tragedy.”
Feedback from the families will be shared with the Christchurch City Council and help inform a report councillors are expected to consider later this year.
