Word on the Street: My journey through Christchurch’s workplaces

Navigating the complexities of local news and maintaining an active social media presence can sometimes challenge my optimism about the city.

That's precisely why producing my online series has been such an enjoyable experience.

In my latest episode of Word on the Street, with ChristchurchNZ, I ventured across city, engaging with local workers to discover their true feelings about living and working in the city.

My journey started with Lucy, a vibrant Vietnamese chef who owns a popular food outlet in the Five Lanes complex.

During our chat, Lucy was enthusiastic, sharing her love for Christchurch. She spoke so highly of her loyal customers, and they, in turn, praised her warmly.

Having tasted her delicious offerings myself, I can attest to the joy she brings to every interaction, always greeting me with a bright smile.

Lucy shared how much she enjoys spending time with her young family at Hagley Park and exploring the diverse culinary scene across Christchurch.

Lucy and her family are spoilt for choice. Canterbury's hospitality industry has rebounded from the pandemic's setbacks - thriving, even amidst the escalating cost of living.

Then, there was Julia, a business manager at a medical clinic in the central city, who spoke of her love of coffee. Working on Bealey Avenue, she finds joy in the convenience of popping into different cafes for her daily coffee fix.

She was initially reluctant to go on camera, but once I explained the theme of the episode, her enthusiasm for the city overshadowed her shyness.

Julia described Christchurch as feeling like a "giant community," a sentiment echoed in laughter when she said “everyone knows each other.”

I also met Vijay, the business manager of a 2Degrees store, who appreciates Christchurch for reasons that resonate with many who have experienced big city life.

"Having lived in Auckland, you spend a lot of time sitting in traffic, but now that I’m in Christchurch, I can use that time with my young family."

Leo, a barber, who recently returned to Christchurch, also shared his insights while cutting hair at his busy salon.

While he works in the central city, he lives in Parklands and enjoys taking his family to Bottlelake Forest on weekends, highlighting the accessible natural escapes in our city.

Diego, who hails from Chile, said that few places in the world that offer the tranquility found in the heart of a bustling city.

"This place is remarkably serene, in the best way possible. It has a wonderfully relaxed vibe.”

Pharmacist Michael from Halswell praised the growing suburb for its vibe and friendly people, a sentiment shared by neighboring café workers.

Julian, a business corporate advisor fro Dallington, marveled at how easy it is to do business here and loves the proximity to the local ski fields—a luxury for any enthusiast.

This episode reaffirmed my affection for Christchurch.

While we all face our daily challenges, having worked in Auckland myself, I find the calm and ease of getting around Christchurch to be truly special.

It's not just a place to live and work; it's a place to thrive and connect.

Word on the Street is partner content with ChristchurchNZ