The headlines of The Weekend Press in Christchurch announced on Saturday 30th July 2011 that the future of the AMI stadium was in doubt. The story stated that, ‘Several high-level rugby sources have confirmed the ground is in a far more serious state of repair than previously disclosed.’ It is feared that the complex may have to be demolished.
Bad News for Rugby Fans after Christchurch Earthquakes
Thousands of rugby followers were devastated when the decision was made to move the Rugby World Cup games from Christchurch after the AMI stadium was badly damaged in the February 22nd earthquake. The news that the stadium and grounds may be damaged beyond repair is a second blow to them. The Crusaders – Canterbury’s rugby team were based at the AMI stadium and used the grounds for practicing until the earthquake.
According to the AMI Stadium website, the site was first earmarked as a sports facility in 1880. It was named Lancaster Park and opened officially in October 1881. Over the years, it hosted athletics, cricket, cycling and rugby. The park was renamed Jade Stadium in 1998 and became AMI Stadium in 2007.
Ewing Cartwright, a Christchurch local, said he wouldn’t mind if the stadium was rebuilt elsewhere in the city or surrounds. “The stadium in Sydney is serviced by buses, ferries and trains. If Christchurch laid on good public transport to a new stadium and allowed for plenty of parking, it would be a good thing.” One of his co-workers commented that a smaller, closed-in stadium would be a good idea. “In winter, I’d rather watch the games on TV. The wind howls through the stands at AMI and it’s not pleasant.”
Christchurch Residents Relax as Aftershocks Decrease
Christchurch people report feeling a little more relaxed as large aftershocks decrease in frequency. While the region is still experiencing daily shakes, most are very slight or not felt at all. While some large ones are still expected to occur, it seems hopeful that the worst is over.
On July 28th, seven shocks were recorded with the strongest being of 3.6 magnitude. A 3.4 was the strongest on the 29th July and on the 30th July, the biggest shake was a 3.7. The aftershocks are the result of the 7.1 magnitude quake on the 4th September 2010, and the two 6.3 shocks that struck on the 22nd February 2011 and the 13th June 2011. The Canterbury Quake Live website gives the approximate location of each tremor allowing people to surmise which earthquake it related to.
Debbie Roome - Debbie Roome is an award-winning freelance writer, journalist and novelist with over 25 years experience.
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