Christchurch Conversations: Urban Naturing

FREE, registration essential Our native flora and fauna are integral parts of this place and people - special and unique. Yet more than 4000 of our species are under threat of extinction. What is the scale of the problem in our city, and how do we turn the tide, band together and manage the threats to these taonga so that we can ensure an Ōtautahi where all living things flourish? In te ao Māori, all life forms are connected and intertwined. What would happen if more New Zealanders viewed nature as part of themselves and vice versa? Having a relationship with other living things in the urban environment is key to helping our urban spaces thrive: nature is part of the city and the city is a powerful sphere for nurturing it. Join us for this Christchurch Conversation, inspired by the Department of Conservation’s ‘Always be Naturing’ campaign, as we explore the urban dimensions of naturing and biodiversity, and how we can connect across different spheres and scales of action to engage with and support our living systems, together. Hear from a range of speakers as we consider what biodiversity looks like for and in the city; what we are doing well and what we need to build on. Our speakers canvass the obstacles, the everyday things we can do to promote conservation, the benefits of urban naturing and more. Join us for this free and vital conversation. Hear from: • Makarini Rupene, Environment Canterbury's cultural land management advisor and poū matai kō (mahinga kai/food gathering faciliator) • Vicki Connor, Chief Advisor Public Affairs, Department of Conservation • Colin Meurk, ONZM, landscape ecologist and conservationist • Jade Gibson, Māori ecologist; kaupapa taiao specialist (Kāhu Environmental) • Regan Kupu Stokes (Nō Ngāi Te Rangi, nō Ingarangi), poet • Chaired by Lianne Dalziel, CNZM 6-7.30pm, Tuesday 15 September Doors open 5.30pm TSB Space, Level 1 of Tūranga. 60 Cathedral Sq This is a free public event. You can join us in person or online. Te Pūtahi acknowledges and thanks our Event Partner, the Department of Conservation. The Christchurch Conversations 2026 programme is supported by the Christchurch City Council through the Sustainability Fund and with the support of the New Zealand National Commission for UNESCO. Image by Ed Lust Getting here Find this building on Google maps. Visit the Metro website to plan your journey Check out the mobility parking map. Getting inside There are accessible entrances from Gloucester Street and Cathedral Square There is a ramp to access the Gloucester Street entrance Building accessibility The building is step-free There are accessible, gender-neutral bathrooms available on-site There are places to sit and rest inside the building Please contact us if you have any questions about accessibility for this event at [email protected].