Hey there,

I need to speak up about something that’s really been weighing on my mind—the proposed demolition of the City to Sea Bridge. To me, this feels like an outright act of vandalism, and it’s deeply upsetting. Civic Square is the heart of Wellington, maybe even the best city center in New Zealand. And at the center of it all is this bridge—a true gem. It’s not just practical; it’s a stunning work of art. It’s rare to find something that’s so functional, so beautiful, and somehow also so much fun to experience. That bridge brings a little bit of joy to everyone who crosses it. But it’s more than just a bridge; it’s a cultural treasure. This was a collaboration between some of our most incredible creative minds—Māori artists like Para Matchett, Matt Pine, and weaver Toi Te Rito Maihi, alongside Pākehā creators, including Ian Athfield. Ath, as you probably know, is one of New Zealand’s greatest architects. Losing this would mean losing a piece of our shared heritage. It’s heartbreaking to see this kind of short-sighted thinking. It reminds me of how another one of Ath’s brilliant ideas—a partnership with world-renowned architect Frank Gehry for a National Museum—was shut down. We could have had something to rival the Sydney Opera House. Instead, we got… Te Papa. And now, we’re watching the same mediocre mindset threaten something equally special. I’m outraged that the Council would even consider letting this happen. How can they not see what’s at stake? This bridge deserves to be saved—not just for now, but for generations to come. Let’s protect it.

Warm regards,

Lena Fairbanks