Sometimes silence says it all. Which is why, I suspect, Civil Defence added no commentary to this video. It is brilliantly shot, and quite moving.
Source: Ministry of Civil Defence and Emergency Management (MCDEM) and licensed by MCDEM for re-use under the Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 New Zealand Licence.
Watch it, share it, and write us a comment if you feel inclined.
19 March 2011 at 10:09 am
The video montage used at the close of yesterday’s memorial service can be found on the TV3 website: http://ow.ly/4hyD2
19 March 2011 at 11:01 pm
Thank you for this. I had stopped watching news footage due to the overwhelming nature of the rhetoric and interviews. The silence has allowed me to assimilate the reality, and gain a better understanding of how the people of Christchurch have been affected. I used to live in Christchurch so I am lucky to have wonderful memories of the city and its people.
20 March 2011 at 8:19 pm
Thank you. I don’t think there is any need for voiceovers or music. The natural sounds are an accompaniment that shows the full effect of the devastation. After volunteering in Latimer square the sounds heard on this video are a true rendition of the eerie sounds emanating from the city.
this video is needed for the healing of the city to begin.
20 March 2011 at 11:36 pm
I have just watched the video and can only say how very sad that in a few minutes all that devastation was caused. How many beautiful buildings were destroyed how many lives will never be the same. I have family in Christchurch and thank god they are all safe. My heart goes out to you all.
22 March 2011 at 5:49 pm
Profoundly moving. Words are too much sometimes, but this is a graphic and respectful way of commemorating this monumental and catastrophic event. Thank you for sharing this.
23 March 2011 at 1:27 am
I would like to say what a moving video, its is unbelievable to comprehend the damage that has been caused. Much respect to all the people trying to re build this city and much love to anyone who lost someone on this tradgic day.
23 March 2011 at 2:30 pm
Amazing footage. Beautifully filmed. Its just unfathomable the destruction that has been caused. The heartache that has followed and the souls lost.
Im a born and bred Cantabrian but have not lived there for many years but once home always home with the heart. But I have faith that Christchurch WILL rise again. All my love and prayers to all the beautiful souls of all Cantabrians. We are all behind you in every way that we can be. Kia Kaha
2 April 2011 at 12:41 pm
What a beautiful way to say, this happened; we did not cause it, it just happened. Our thoughts are with you all, in the city we used to live. Stay strong.
9 April 2011 at 8:13 am
My son, James Wallis Martin, his wife and his two daughters live in Burwood, Christchurch. They are also having a difficult time.
Kenneth W. Martin
1376 Ken Avenue
Santa Maria, California 93455
9 April 2011 at 11:11 am
As one who has never experienced an earthquake, I can only watch this with horror and immense sorrow for those members of your community who lost their lives, the injured and their families. Take care.