Christchurch Council to Vote on Erebus Memorial Site Decision

Christchurch City Council is set to vote next week on whether to propose Cracroft Reserve in Cashmere as the site for the National Erebus Memorial. This memorial seeks to honor the 257 individuals who lost their lives in the tragic 1979 Air New Zealand plane crash in Antarctica. Families of the victims have long awaited a dedicated memorial, and the potential selection of this site is seen as a step towards resolving years of controversy and delays.

The idea of a memorial located in Auckland faced significant opposition due to concerns that it would alter the character of the Dove Meyer Robinson Park. Ultimately, the Auckland site was abandoned in 2023 following damage from a cyclone and issues related to land stability. Since then, several alternative sites have been considered in Christchurch, including the Ōtākaro Avon riverbank and the grounds of St James’ Church in Harewood. Last month, these sites, along with Cracroft Reserve, were shared with the families of the victims for their input.

In a statement released in July, the Ministry for Culture and Heritage noted that it was seeking feedback from Erebus families regarding the potential memorial sites and emphasized that no final decisions had been made regarding the memorial’s location.

Cracroft Reserve Emerges as Preferred Option

According to a report from the council, while many family members still favor Auckland as the memorial site, delays in securing a suitable location have prompted a reassessment of alternatives. The report highlighted that “Ōtautahi Christchurch, with its deep connections to Antarctic exploration and strong culture of remembrance, presents a respectful and practical alternative.”

The council has identified Cracroft Reserve as the preferred site following a thorough examination involving the council, mana whenua (local Māori), and the Ministry for Culture and Heritage. An independent site assessment reinforced this decision, noting that “Cracroft Reserve in Cashmere offers a peaceful, elevated setting with expansive views and strong cultural and experiential qualities.”

Support from mana whenua has been expressed, with no cultural concerns raised that would preclude the establishment of a memorial at this site. Council staff have recommended keeping the site offer open for a period of 12 months to facilitate further investigations and engagement with families.

Advocates Call for Urgent Action

Advocate for the Erebus National Memorial and aviation chaplain Richard Waugh stated that Christchurch is a logical choice for the memorial if a site in Auckland remains unattainable. Waugh, who has been involved with the memorial since 2016, emphasized the need for a location that is both appealing and accessible, noting that it should not be placed in a cemetery.

He expressed his desire for the memorial to be constructed without further delays. “It has been a nine-year process to get to this point,” Waugh remarked, adding that he hopes for completion by November 2026.

Phil Stewart, who lost his aunt, Dawn Matthews, in the disaster, expressed his support for the proposed memorial at Cracroft Reserve. He acknowledged that while he has not visited the site recently, he believes it fulfills the criteria for a place of quiet contemplation. “I really just want to see a memorial built,” Stewart said. “There are many families who have been waiting for years to pay tribute to their lost loved ones.”

The Christchurch City Council will meet next Wednesday to determine whether to officially recommend Cracroft Reserve as the site for the Erebus Memorial, marking a significant step in a long-awaited process for the families of the victims.