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The devastating earthquake sequence in Christchurch and Canterbury has resulted in the removal of over 1200 buildings in the former Christchurch CBD. Add to this the damage to over 100,000 homes and the impact on the lives of the 436,000 residents of Greater Christchurch. The Canterbury Earthquakes have provided an unprecedented opportunity to rethink, revitalise and renew Central Christchurch. Aided by an investment of greater than NZ$40bn, sourced via insurance, central and local government contributions and topped up by commercial and private investment, with construction at its peak, we are experiencing a spend rate exceeding NZ$100 M per week. Out of the rubble is emerging a well-formed and vibrant city centre that produces economic and social benefits by bringing together people for business, cultural or social activities. The “new Christchurch” is being built upon the principles of resilience, sustainability and connectedness, whilst also reflecting our history through the retention and enhancement of key heritage buildings and infrastructure assets framed by green spaces and accessible pathways. This paper introduces some of the initiatives put in place as building blocks to drive the recovery of the new City Core, and indeed greater Christchurch and Canterbury Area. These initiatives range from improved building structural standards and codes, to ‘Green’ building rating tools, to Energy Design Advice Grants and “Smart City” development principles. The new Christchurch can be (and is being) defined by its accessible, connected, resilient and high performing building stock. Only time will be the ultimate judge, however after just over 5 years, the city is going from strength to strength and Christchurch continues to provide a significant contribution to the national economy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]