Study of the passive use of the inner city Avon riverside

Abstract

The Avon, which winds its way through the city, presents ever-changing views of much beauty. The grassed banks, the willows which gracefully bend over its waters and the noiseless flow of water, fascinate, soothe and bring enjoyment to the users of the Avon.

To early settlers by the river it was their only source of water supply, until seven artesian wells were sunk. To the Christchurch Fire Brigade the Avon supplied the water for extinguishing fires. And in this river butchers washed down their carts and watered their horses, while cart loads of water were used to reduce the dust of the city thoroughfares.

Today the river and its banks are used primarily for recreation, whether it is rowing, or enjoying the view and the relaxing surroundings. It is this recreational use which this study will focus on. The study is concerned with the passive use of the Avon riverside.

Within the Government legislation the Avon and its banks are classified under the Reserves Act 1977 with maintenance and any improvement plans carried out by the Christchurch City Council.

Included in the Reserves Act in Section 40 and 41 allowances are made for public participation in planning. From this, the main aim of this study arises, that of discovering how the users/public make use of the river bank reserves and what they perceive as desirable needs and/or improvements along the Avon river banks.

There has been, and is, an increasing awareness of the need for the public to be involved in planning. One way of achieving this involvement is by way of surveys.

This study should not and could not be taken as conclusive, but should be seen as a beginning of public involvement in any planning of the Avon river.

The river and the city belong together, with the recreational use growing over the years. Concern for improvement is not a new development, but has been a part of the city plans from the initial establishment of Christchurch city. In the past only a few could voice their opinion concerning proposed plans. Today opinion should be heard from the public and in particular those who use the resource. Foresight of the City Fathers needs to be protected and incorporated into the future plans for the Avon river.