Part of a Cityscape series presenting the opinions of real people who live in Christchurch's central city: Peter Wells.
How would you describe the vibe in your neighbourhood? A quiet buzz, punctuated by construction.
Your neighbours are… A great mingle of people. Many 20-plus year residents which is a big plus and interspersed with young people, some rental properties, and commercial businesses. It would be great to see more diverse and long-term residents over time.
Why do you choose to live in the four aves? Community. I live with 19 others in a Victorian backpackers (closed for COVID) that we've converted into a community house. It's a beautiful space to live and remarkably well organised.
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Biggest drawcard? The proximity to green space and happenings in the city centre are brilliant. Being able to walk or cycle to Tūranga, the Arts Centre, or Smash Palace changes the way you engage with the city and brings more serendipity to life.
Biggest drawback? The construction around our street has been intense this year, but as projects finish, it becomes more and more placid. It's sad to see so many cheap townhouses going up that will be torn down again in 30 years.
Fave local coffee? Foundation Cafe is my local, but Lux Cafe at CoCA and Caffeine Laboratory on New Regent Street also have great atmosphere.
Food? Sun Dog Diner, hands down.
Entertainment? The Isaac Theatre for the RNZB whenever they tour, Lumière Cinema, Little Andromeda, and the XCHC.
Retail? Fashion creates 10% of global carbon emissions and 35% of microplastics. Op shopping's the way to go.
How do you get around? Mostly walking or cycling. It's easy to borrow a car to escape the city for a weekend.
What’s your occupation? I help with creating a marine research vessel for New Zealand, and a few arts and ecology projects.
Is work handy to home? Yes, it's an easy 15-minute walk through Victoria Square.
Can you describe the Christchurch of the future in one sentence? Christchurch has largely rebuilt a 20th Century city, but we might still transcend this if our anchor institutions learn to work together and invest in the city's creative potential.
Why should other people move here now? Christchurch is a large village, with a huge amount of possibility. Once you meet the people, you'll see.