Subscribe » Issue #39, May-Jun 2012 Mag Cover
Idealog—in the ideas business

  • Group forms to revitalise and preserve Christchurch’s historic High Street precinct

    2011-06-07 11:32:01 // // The Idealog Blog
    Late 19th century Victorian and early 20th century Edwardian buildings are at the heart of Christchurch’s High Street precinct. But preserving that history is another matter all together, and following the series of quakes that have shaken the city, it’s become even more potent. And in recognition of this, last week the High Street Precinct Group was formed. Comprised of a series of property owners, tenants, retailers, and residents, the group is united by a shared vision of strengthening the historic fabric of the city.
  • Auckland’s future development gets spatial and seeks feedback

    2011-03-28 15:17:48 // // The Idealog Blog
    We’ve all heard about Auckland Mayor Len Brown’s vision for Auckland—to make it the most liveable city in the world. A bold goal, and with the population of Auckland expected to grow by around 640,000 people between 2010 and 2040, it’ll be a delicate one at that. The rather large Auckland or “Spatial” Plan discussion document published by Brown last week explores ways to guide Auckland’s growth and new development in the next 20-30 years, and the people and place category in particular raises some points that might be foremost in people’s thoughts when it comes to our built assets and heritage.
  • Words from the New Zealand Historic Places Trust

    2011-03-02 06:00:00 // // The Idealog Blog
    The New Zealand Historic Places Trust (NZHPT) extends its deepest sympathy to families, friends and colleagues who lost loved ones and whose lives have been turned upside down through damage to their homes and businesses. This organisation is committed to working with Civil Defence, emergency services, the Christchurch City Council and government agencies in any capacity to help the city recover.
  • Big love for Christchurch

    2011-02-22 15:45:07 // // The Idealog Blog | 1 comment
    Much sympathy and concern to our friends and colleagues in Christchurch. Your loss is ours. And let us know about how you and your workplaces are affected. We’re keen to hear and help. Just add your news to the comment thread. Also, Google has created this people finder if you're concerned about anyone in Christchurch. http://christchurch-2011.person-finder.appspot.com/
  • A saunter through St Heliers past?

    2011-02-02 11:07:26 // // The Idealog Blog
    If you didn't catch this clip last night on Campbell Live, see what happens when John Campbell embarks on a walk set out in the 2006 St Heliers Village Heritage Walk brochure. Perhaps not surprisingly, it seems a lot can change in five years, and that change goes beyond the recently demolished art deco houses.
  • Speed dating with Art Week Auckland

    2010-11-05 11:39:56 // // The Idealog Blog
    Today marks the launch of Auckland’s Art Week (5-14 November), giving you the chance to pick and choose from 80 events and exhibitions taking place across three inner-city neighbourhoods. Better yet, many of the events are free. You can even get in amongst a spot of speed dating...
  • If it’s good enough for the Russian rugby team (yes, there is one)

    2010-10-22 10:07:12 // // The Idealog Blog | 3 comments
    A commitment to protecting heritage has led to the resurrection of the Grosvenor—Timaru's iconic 19th century building. Also known as the Grand Old Lady of the South, the Grosvenor is entwined in Timaru's history with ornate styling dating back to when it was built in 1885.
  • Why it’s imperative central government is involved in preserving our heritage buildings

    2010-09-23 11:57:57 // // The Idealog Blog | 1 comment
    With the Government's announcement that it will contribute $10 million in addition to local funding to assist with the repair, restoration and strengthening of heritage and character buildings in the Canterbury region, comes news that three buildings on Wellington’s Willis street—all over 100 years old—are being demolished, without any public notification. But the owners of heritage buildings that fall under similar fate aren't necessarily to blame.
  • Out of the quake rubble rises a new 21st century Christchurch and a stronger garden city

    2010-09-20 11:42:43 // // The Idealog Blog | 1 comment
    As a former UK-Europe Bureau Chief NZPA media correspondent, Kip Brook is no stranger to putting his thoughts into words following a crisis. Now settled in Christchurch, Brook gives his take on the city's architecture and heritage, a fortnight after the quake.