Field trips

Thursday 5 November, from 2.20pm

Te Kuru Wetland

Explore Te Kuru, a 110-hectare multi-value stormwater landscape in the upper Ōpāwaho Heathcote River catchment. Developed through Christchurch’s post-earthquake Land Drainage Recovery Programme, the wetland is part of the Upper Heathcote Valley catchment system, including basins such as Curletts and Cashmere Valley dam, that can store up to one million cubic metres of floodwater while supporting recreation, ecology, cultural values and landscape outcomes.

The visit will explore nature-based approaches to flood management and climate adaptation, collaboration across disciplines and communities, ecological restoration, and the role of landscape architects in balancing stormwater infrastructure with meaningful public open space.

Parakiore Recreation and Sport Centre

Visit the public realm surrounding Parakiore, Aotearoa New Zealand’s largest aquatic and indoor recreation and leisure facility and one of the anchor projects identified through Christchurch’s post-earthquake recovery.

The landscape design reflects the distinctive landscapes and history of Canterbury, including a contemporary interpretation of Raupō Creek and former wetland ecology. The visit will explore place-based and cultural narratives, civic identity, ecology, recreation, active travel and the role of landscape in integrating a major public facility into the wider city.

Ōtākaro Avon River Corridor: City to Sea Pathway West, Mōkihi Bridge and Avon Park

Explore three connected projects within the regenerating Ōtākaro Avon River Corridor by bike.

The visit will look at how the City to Sea Pathway reconnects communities and supports active travel, the innovative low-carbon mass timber construction of Mōkihi Bridge, and the transformation of Avon Park into both active community park and regenerating river delta.

Together, the projects explore regeneration over time, ecological and community outcomes, reuse of materials, and how landscape architecture can help shape a changing part of the city.

Te Nukutai o Tapoa Naval Point, Stage 3

Explore a collaboratively developed coastal landscape shaped with Christchurch City Council, Ngāti Wheke and the local community.

A ki uta ki tai, from the hills to the harbour, narrative is expressed through an ecological transect featuring more than 70 indigenous species. Repurposed wharf timbers reference former seabed depths, while local marine materials and relics are woven into an imaginative play space creating an abstracted wheke, or octopus, tentacle and shipwreck bay.

The visit will explore cultural and historical storytelling, biodiversity, material reuse, and how meaningful outcomes can be achieved within a modest budget, designing for the locals, with the locals.

Marokapara endures & flourishes

Visit Marokapara, a 1946 mid-century duplex that has been home to Lucas Associates since 1991, and explore the evolution of a small central-city landscape over more than three decades.

Grounded in the natural character of the Ōtautahi Christchurch wet plains, the site expresses local biota, materials and traditions. Following a significant roof fire in late 2024, its latest refurbishment continues that story.

Note: some field trips have limited capacities. All delegates will get to provide their preferences in October and we will do our best to match you with where you want to go.