The tenth anniversary of the Christchurch earthquakes

Published

Her Majesty's message was read by the Governor-General during a National Service of Commemoration held on the tenth anniversary of the earthquakes at the Canterbury Earthquake National Memorial in Christchurch, New Zealand.

While there are many sad memories of that terrible time, there is also solace in remembering how your community rose to the challenge of rebuilding your lives and supporting each other.

On the tenth Anniversary of the Canterbury earthquakes, as you gather to remember those lost and reflect on the devastating effects these earthquakes had on Christchurch, my thoughts are with you all. The loss of life was both sudden and tragic, profoundly affecting many people in New Zealand and around the world. 

While there are many sad memories of that terrible time, there is also solace in remembering how your community rose to the challenge of rebuilding your lives and supporting each other.  You displayed great fortitude in the face of sudden, overwhelming loss.  Since that time you have continued to work to rebuild your city and your community, looking to a positive future.

My prayers are with all those marking today’s solemn anniversary. 

Elizabeth R