From the editor: 15 September 2022

A sad loss

Flags across Christchurch have been flying at half mast as those in the city join the rest of the Commonwealth in mourning the passing of Queen Elizabeth II.
During her 70 year reign, the Queen was a frequent visitor to Christchurch, leaving many people here with fond memories and a deep sense of loss. Condolence books are available at the Civic Offices, the Christchurch Art Gallery, Tūranga, Christchurch South Library, Te Hapua Halswell Library, Upper Riccarton Library, Fendalton Library, New Brighton Library, Matuku Takotako: Sumner Centre, the Christchurch Town Hall and the Transitional Cathedral.

Meanwhile life here continues and is slowly opening up to more and more exciting events, bringing dozens of people here, and also luring locals outside.
Many more events will play out during the months ahead. One of these is SailGP, scheduled for March next year on Lyttelton Harbour. I can’t wait to see the magnificient catamarans hydrofoiling on the harbour, and experience the thrills of the teams’ high-speed battles while chasing victory.

I do, however have to wait, along with everyone else, to buy tickets for the spectacular, and these are limited. Fortunately interested parties can pre-register for tickets on the SailGP website, and I suggest you do so, or you might miss out. This is one event not to miss.

Having a seaside playground on our doorstep is fabulous for all those water babies out there. Sit beside it, swim in it or sail on it, but please, make the most of all our beaches and waterways this summer and beyond.