Deborah Nation recalls visits to Homebush, the historic Deans homestead near Darfield, the wreckage of which became one of the most viewed images in the first days after the September 2010 Canterbury earthquake.
We assess how last the earthquake has affected three major arts festivals and Christchurch's historic Repertory Theatre, and the part the arts have to play in helping the city to get back on its feet.
While it's going to take several years and millions of dollars to repair earthquake damage, the Christchurch Arts Centre can count its lucky stars and look ahead to making the historic building better and stronger.