The Resilience of Lyttelton

The community of Lyttleton (Christchurch) has suffered enormous damage to their township infrastructure and community spirit from the numerous major earthquakes. It is also this Lyttelton community spirit and resilience that makes this place very special. Lyttelton is friendly and close knit - I know it from the farmers market, the vibrant music scene and the numerous quality coffee shops that have now all been destroyed.

I was there last Saturday and noticed this new Lyttelton Petanque Club and it is a great example of this resilience. It had its grand opening the previous weekend, and from all accounts it was a big success with around 100 people turning up. I have felt for some time that this type of informal petanque club is something we need to see more of. It's great for street communities and city parks, no fees, complicated regulations, affiliations, etc. It is a place for getting together and having fun - think village square France.

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