Restoration of Christchurch landmarks after the Canterbury Earthquakes has been a divisive issue for many Cantabrians. While there is plenty of argument about what decision should be made, most of us can agree on one thing – a decision needs to be made.

The 140-year-old jetty at Governors Bay is a landmark gem that you might not have heard much about. The Jetty extends 300 metres into Lyttelton Harbour, the same length as the New Brighton Pier in Christchurch. It didn’t fare well in the Canterbury quakes.

Upset with the inaction over the restoration of the Jetty, a group of like-minded individuals decided to take on the onus of repair. They formed the Governors Bay Jetty Restoration Trust and approached the Council with a plan to restore the Jetty to its former glory. Following lengthy discussions with Council, the Jetty was vested in the Trust to ensure an efficient rebuild. After obtaining professional reports a plan has been formulated and a price-tag determined. Council has committed to a portion of the restoration cost with fundraising expected to meet the balance.

To date the fundraising initiatives include an art fundraiser displayed in Christchurch’s Art Centre, Jetty themed T-Shirts and Sponsoring a Plank. Our favourite new initiative, and one that we expect many readers can get behind, is a special craft beer produced by Christchurch’s Two Thumb Brewery. Named ‘Crooked Pile’ this beer is somewhere between a pale ale and a lager. Selling for $120 per dozen (500ml bottles) this limited edition brew is a further example of the Trust thinking outside the box to raise funds. Get in quickly to ensure you have a dozen in time for Christmas.

The Trust, chaired by our very own Simon Mortlock, recently achieved a significant milestone with the grant of Resource Consent for the rebuild. With a swelling membership base and strong fundraising, the Trust is confident they can see the project through.

If you are keen to get involved head along to http://www.savethejetty.org/ or for further details contact Consultant Simon Mortlock (DDI 03 343 8385 / simon@mmlaw.co.nz).