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Source: ONE News -
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A group of Christchurch business leaders and councillors have returned from a fact-finding trip to San Francisco, determined to get the rebuild of the quake torn city right.
San Francisco suffered its own destructive earthquake in 1989, but since then has undergone a successful rebuild. The delegation members have been learning how they can achieve the same result with Christchurch.
The experience in San Francisco showed businesses were willing to invest in the rebuild, rather than let the city slide into decline.
Securing investment is a key concern for investment banker Justin Murray, he wants efforts made to entice large investors onboard.
"Capital will flow if the vision is compelling and the structure is strong," he said.
"Investment and information are the currency of recovery."
One potential stumbling block could be turning the rebuild into a political issue, something Christchurch Deputy Mayor Ngaire Button has become keenly aware of.
"If you look at New Orleans and many of the disasters around the World, the politics holds the process back and the politicians... as elected members we have to have the courage to make hard calls."
Businessman Steve Abley agrees that the rebuild needs clear direction.
"This issue is bigger than the personalities and is bigger than the politics, it's got to be done right," he said.
The future of Christchurch has been gaining support recently, with outdoor clothing and equipment retailer Kathmandu saying it will build its new national distribution office there and the badly damaged casino re-opening for business.
The rebuild of the city is estimated to cost $16 billion.
