Otakaro 3: Avon Loop - Laid to Rest (Canterbury) Traditional Cache

Located in a historic cemetery in the Avon Loop, which pre quakes was a thriving community and one of Christchurch's most interesting demographics, dating back to Nagi Tahu settlement. Sadly much of the area has been badly damaged and redzoned. Stop and take a moment to think of the people and families that called the Avon Loop between Barbadoes St and Fitzgerald Ave home, and those who still do.

Please make sure its left hidden from muggles.

Important note: There is NO need to step on any graves when approaching from the correct angle. You should never do that anyway!!! The Avon Loop preserves the memory of the pa site of Tautahi, currently referenced at Cambridge Green.

In this area is Te Wai Pure o Tautahi (St Mary's Stream), traditionally understood to be the purification waters where Tautahi and his wife, Riki, had their marriage ceremony. The Avon Loop plan proposes to enhance and strengthen the cultural significance of this area to Waitaha, Ngāti Māmoe and Ngāi Tahu through clear referencing of mahinga kai and hai kai values.

The design proposes a corridor of indigenous planting that is closer to the pre-settlement Gondwana landscape. This corridor planting refers to the korowai (cloak) of Waitaha, acknowledging the first occupants of this land.

The effects of the earthquake remain apparent in the form of slumped banks and changes in profile. Proposals seek to work with these changes and create a corridor of indigenous planting that supports a natural habitat with excellent public access and extensive interpretation.