The Green Party hopes we all will pause today to remember the 185 individuals who lost their lives as a result of last year's severe Christchurch earthquake.
"Their passing has torn apart the lives of their families, friends and workmates," Green Party Co-leader Metiria Turei said.
"Our aroha cannot fill those gaps but can show people they are not alone."
Several memorial events in Christchurch will commemorate the 22 February 2011 earthquake. Green Party MPs attended the morning memorial at Latimer Square and will attend the Civic Memorial Service at midday in North Hagley Park.
"The Green Party pays tribute to the bravery of ordinary citizens and emergency services personnel, many of whom put themselves at great personal risk to help others," said Mrs Turei.
Green Party Christchurch earthquake spokesperson Eugenie Sage said: "today is a day to support family and friends who have lost loved ones, those injured, and those whose homes have been broken or destroyed by the earthquake and its aftermath".
"It's also a day to look to Christchurch's future.
"One living memorial to the tragic events of last year would be the establishment of an Avon River/Otakaro River Park connecting Hagley Park to the sea along the Avon River.
"In the year ahead we must redouble our efforts in listening to the community to make real progress in rebuilding Christchurch as a beautiful and sustainable garden city," Ms Sage said
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