Get Amongst a World of Opportunity

It's been a crazy year. Earthquakes, class in tents, nowhere to party, a city in ruins, and a most obsessive media storm about what was planned to be a small-to-medium sized volunteer project.

It's no secret that I'm a fan of Christchurch. Most people think I'm mad, and I'm pretty sure I'll be lynched if I ever leave, but there's no denying that right now we have unique opportunities in the Garden City. The city as a whole, just like student culture, has a long battle ahead. A battle that has only just begun.

As a student body, what has been achieved this year is nothing short of a miracle – and I'm not just talking about the SVA. Everyone from our club leaders; to our UCSA; to the everyday student who has just knuckled down, helped out a mate, and pulled through this year; has made an impact on the response and recovery of Christchurch. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Christchurch can't thank you enough for still being here. A really special thanks to each and every person who has been a volunteer. You rock.

This past year has been unreal. The heartache and pain with which many people still live is deeply saddening. I can't begin to put into words what the tsunami zone in Japan was like – we don't know how good we have it here.

On a lighter note for students, sure some people are sad we lost The Foundry (and now it's way harder to get drunk and hit on first years), but I'm happy. Sure, Christchurch is without our central city, and we complain there is nothing to do here anymore, but imagine life in a few years' time. We can make going to UC the absolute best tertiary experience in New Zealand. Our own Dux de Lux, funky cafes, and central city living in warm, cheap central city accommodation that doesn't have mould on the roof.

I've been reading the detailed central city plan over the weekend. It hosts an exciting vision for a new city build for our generation. You've only got a week left to chuck in a suggestion/critique it... there's nothing worse than a city built by the opinions of old people. The city council is not after new ideas, but specific feedback about what has been proposed. Would you use a tram? How much would you pay to go on it? What would make you want to live in town?

I'll leave you with a couple of things to keep in mind. Firstly, you're a ratepayer, and therefore entitled to significant youth funding that is given out by the council for sports and cultural tournaments etc. Secondly, we need show our commitment to Canterbury and tell the world that earthquakes aren't so bad, and to come and study here. Finally, think outside the box. There is major money being thrown around Canterbury, and it could be getting thrown at your idea/start-up/initiative. You don't have to follow the old pattern of school, university, work. Get amongst it – there is literally a world of opportunity on our doorstep!