Why is Christchurch a "Peace City"?

In July 2002 Christchurch City Councillors voted in favour of declaring Christchurch a Peace City. This was seen as a way for Christchurch to celebrate its peace history, as many people involved in the peace movement and some of the movement's peace initiatives started in Christchurch.

This decision was a way to show our city’s commitment to actively contribute to a more peaceful future, through a range of initiatives, starting with new strategies for a more peaceful community, the development of education programmes, and the promotion of peace, non-violence and respect for all citizens.