Global engineering and consulting firm Jacobs has been appointed to support a major regeneration initiative in Christchurch, New Zealand, aimed at transforming the Ōtākaro Avon River Corridor (OARC) into a resilient, ecology-led public landscape.
The project, commissioned by Christchurch City Council, will focus on flood resilience, ecological restoration, and community wellbeing across the 602-hectare river corridor, which was severely impacted by the 2010–2011 Christchurch earthquakes.
The earthquakes that struck New Zealand’s South Island in 2010 and 2011 caused extensive damage across Christchurch’s eastern suburbs. As a result, large sections of land along the river were declared part of a Residential Red Zone, meaning residents could no longer safely live there.
In response, the New Zealand Government and Christchurch City Council developed the OARC Regeneration Plan, which envisions converting the former residential areas into an ecology-focused river corridor that integrates flood protection, stormwater systems, and public open spaces.
The long-term initiative aims to create a sustainable and resilient landscape for future generations while restoring the natural environment along the river.
Jacobs to Lead Engineering and Design Efforts
Under the appointment, Jacobs will deliver the scheme design for stormwater infrastructure and park assets throughout the corridor.
Working alongside GHD and Boffa Miskell, the project team will help advance the regeneration strategy through technical planning and engineering expertise.
Key components of the design include:
- Flood defense infrastructure
- Wetlands and stormwater treatment areas
- Pump stations and drainage systems
- Parkland and ecological restoration projects
- Public recreation and open space improvements
The design phase will also support cost evaluation, risk analysis, and long-term flood and water management planning for the next 100 years.
According to Camille McGregor, Senior Vice President and General Manager at Jacobs, the project represents an opportunity to transform previously damaged land into a community and environmental asset.
“Christchurch’s eastern suburbs were devastated by the earthquakes, with large areas of once-habitable land rendered unlivable,” McGregor said. “We’re excited to partner with Christchurch City Council to bring a new vision for the area to life and transform it into a cultural and ecological asset the community can enjoy and be proud of.”
Supporting Cultural and Community Outcomes
Beyond infrastructure improvements, the regeneration project places strong emphasis on community engagement and cultural heritage.
The plan reflects the values of Ngāi Tūāhuriri Rūnanga, the local Māori tribal authority. The river corridor holds deep cultural significance as a traditional food-gathering area, transport route, and trading place.
Early works supported by the scheme design are expected to deliver visible benefits to the community, including:
- Enhanced parks, recreation areas and public access
- Reduced flood risk to surrounding suburbs
- Improved water quality through stormwater treatment
- Better health and wellbeing outcomes for residents
Multidisciplinary Expertise Driving the Project
The team will provide a wide range of integrated services, including:
- Civil, geotechnical and flood engineering
- Stormwater treatment and water management design
- Mechanical and electrical systems for pump stations
- Hydrogeology and ecological services
- Landscape architecture and public amenities planning
- Digital modelling and environmental analysis
These capabilities, combined with local expertise and extensive knowledge of the Avon River system, will help ensure the regeneration aligns with Christchurch’s long-term environmental and community development goals.
