On 22nd February a violent 6.3 magnitude earthquake brought widespread destruction across Christchurch. Lyttelton was the epicentre of this devastation. Hundreds of homes, historic buildings, and virtually all businesses lie in ruin. Many have lost their livelihoods and still more are displaced, disorientated, or left grieving for the loss of a family member, friend or colleague. As the ground continues to rumble we focus on the now, on each other, taking small steps into an uncertain future.

As each day dawns the realisation of what we have lost sinks in a little more, but as each day dawns we also stand a little taller, together, and realise that the inspiration and strength of this community is not in its bricks and mortar but in its people, their passion and compassion, their energy and spirit and that has not been broken. Together we dare to look to the future.

Before 22nd February Lyttelton was an exciting vibrant little town, taking bold steps towards sustainability, exploring new ways to create and nurture community. Lyttelton had created an invaluable community radio, highly successful farmers market, thriving volunteer network and time bank, community garden, grow local co-operative, information centre and supportive local business network to mention but a few initiatives. All these are in jeopardy as a result of last week's earthquake.