When I signed the application for Christchurch to become part of the 100 Resilient Cities network established by the Rockefeller Foundation as its centennial challenge, I ended with these words:
[Becoming part of the network] would set us up for the next stage in our recovery in so many more ways than the financial contribution to the resilience planning process. And it would enable us to reach out to the rest of the world with the lessons we have learned – a tribute to those who died, were injured or displaced in the disaster that changed our city forever.

Speaking on behalf of the city of Christchurch, the quote that I wish to use on the occasion of this Memorial Service in honour of the life of Nelson Mandela is this:
 
"As I walked out the door toward the gate that would lead to my freedom, I knew if I didn't leave my bitterness and hatred behind, I'd still be in prison."
 
One of the legacies that Nelson Mandela left his country was the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, which was set up by the Government of National Unity to help deal with what happened under apartheid.

I would like to thank the South Island Property Council for providing me with this opportunity to address this gathering of property industry stakeholders. I know you have been running a series of forums since the earthquakes to bring the industry together and share knowledge and I believe meetings such as this are incredibly important.

Minister, Leo and Suzanne Hanssen, thank you for the opportunity to speak to your congregation today about my vision for Christchurch.

Whenever I speak to an organisation or a group, I often go online to find what their purpose statement is. It was no surprise that the purpose of your church is to: Show Love Give Hope Inspire Faith It goes to say: Three things will last forever—faith, hope, and love—and the greatest of these is love. I have told many people that I am not the same person I was three years ago. When I reflect on what has changed me in the context of your purpose and the story that I want to share, I have been shown love, I have been given hope and I have been inspired by the faith of others. I have a necklace that my former staff gave me as I retired from my service as a Member of Parliament. It reads: "The most courageous act is still to think for yourself. Aloud". Ironically it is a quote from Coco Chanel, hardly someone I would rate as one of the world's greatest philosophers. But that being said it is true.

This speaking opportunity arose out of speaking to one of the BNI networks advocates during the election campaign.
 
On that occasion I talked about resilience. There is something serendipitous that this breakfast is scheduled today, when at 3.30 am this morning in New York city, Christchurch was named as one of the 33 cities across 6 continents that make up the first group to be accepted into the Rockefeller Foundation 100 Resilient Cities Network.

Magandang Gabi, good evening.
 
Thank you for the opportunity to say a few words and thank you to the Christchurch Philippines Assistance Group for organising this event.
 
And thank you for your message of unity. It is a word that motivates me in everything I do. I acknowledge the representative of the embassy – I have met your Ambassador so please take my regards to her.