Can cities improve wellbeing?

How can we encourage a place where the human-made systems of the urban realm support natural ecosystems in addition to the health and happiness of its people?

The fourth and final Christchurch Conversation for 2023 seeks to explore this question in conjunction with a range of experts working in the field at the upcoming speaker event entitled ‘Can cities improve wellbeing?'.

Presented by Te Pūtahi Centre for Architecture and City Making, in partnership with Christchurch City Council, ‘Can cities improve wellbeing?’ will be held on Tuesday 28 November from 6-7.30pm at Tūranga’s TSB Space. A virtual attendance option is also available.

Te Pūtahi Director Jessica Halliday says that the urban wellbeing event is the culmination of the 2023 speaker series, which has focused on regenerative cities.

“We wanted to explore how we could stimulate a socially, culturally and ecologically regenerative Ōtautahi Christchurch,” says Ms Halliday.

“By prioritising urban wellbeing, could we create a city that is a better place for all species to live? This is the question we have put to our invited speakers.”

Presenters include Amanda Yates (Ngāti Whakaue, Ngāti Rangiwewehi, Te Aitanga a Mahakai, Rongowhakaata) of AUT, who offers an overview of urban wellbeing, and Joseph Hullen (Ngāi Tūāhuriri/Ngāti Hinematua), who explains how weaving indigenous values, knowledge and storytelling into the urban fabric benefits all living things. 

Public health physician Anna Stevenson (Te Mana Ora, Te Whatu Ora Waitaha) takes attendees through how physical and mental health are impacted by our cities. Finally, Malcolm Long (Ōpawaho Heathcote River Network) shares how the health of the river is intertwined with that of the local human community. Poet Isla Huia rounds out the line up with some wellbeing-inspired words.

You can register to participate either in person or online.

Christchurch Conversations 2023 is funded through the Christchurch City Council’s Sustainability Fund and supported by He Puna ORA Regenerative Action-Lab at AUT.