Public participation after natural disaster – case study of Christchurch earthquake response

Abstract

This paper highlights the interrelated challenges of utilising the concept of public participation ladder in post-disaster planning process. The research was based on the case study of the city of Christchurch in New Zealand, which experienced a tremendous damage after series of earthquakes and aftershocks, that have been occurring since September 2010. Methodology adopted in this paper includes literature review. The true spirit of citizenship which appeared among activists of Christchurch was an expression of their deep relation with the place. The major finding of the paper is that the local, bottom-up initiatives, based on creativity and improvisation may be driving forces of city revival. This paper is raising the importance of delegating power to citizens to find the genius loci, create local identity and a sense of belonging. This symbolic value helps to achieve a resilient city after disaster.