Christchurch Conversations: Bill Reed

How do we create places where nature and people thrive together?

We are at a critical point in human history where there is a pressing need for a new development paradigm. Bill Reed is a global leader of a form of development that is transforming urban environments around the world.

Development can be a powerful tool for good. Human beings have a potentially beneficial and even evolutionary role to play in restoring and supporting natural systems in developing built environments. But in order to play a positive role, humans must come to understand, and then align themselves with, the essence of a place.

Thinking outside the paradigms we are accustomed to can be challenging. Regenerative development is ultimately about learning to see, think and act in a way that respects and builds on the potential of the places we live in. Thinking about and connecting human and natural systems can help us all understand the way development can benefit the health of the land and communities.

In this Christchurch Conversation, Bill Reed introduces us to the practical concepts of regenerative development and design, to help us all create a deeper, more enduring and mutually beneficial relationship between people and place.

The Christchurch Conversations programme is presented by Christchurch City Council in partnership with Te Pūtahi - Christchurch centre for architecture and city-making. It is a series of free talks open to all, where thought leaders explore ideas about the city’s potential. Bill Reed’s Christchurch Conversation is presented in association with the NZ Institute of Architects Canterbury Branch, Ohu and Matapopore.