I am a resident of Christchurch, New Zealand, and like many others here, I have been deeply affected by the exponential rise in rates since the devastating Canterbury earthquakes. Now, with further hikes proposed - a staggering 15.8% increase - many of us are struggling to meet our obligations amidst an already challenging economic crisis. It feels unjust to expect ordinary people to contribute further to a cathedral that they don’t want.

The Christ Church Cathedral is indeed an iconic structure and its restoration is important for our cultural heritage. However, it should not be restored at the expense of rate payers who are already grappling with financial burdens. The suggestion that further use of rate payers' money for this project adds insult to injury during these trying times.

It's time we prioritise people over buildings. We must ensure that no more rate payers' money goes into rebuilding the Christ Church Cathedral unless there is clear public support for such use of funds.

Please sign this petition if you believe in fair allocation of public funds and stand against using rate payers’ money on projects without their consent or support.