Along the lines of New York's Twin Towers "Tribute in Light",
The White Lights Of Hope will shine nightly until 23rd of February
2012.
"Cantabrians have shown the most remarkable resilience and
strength of spirit since last September. For all of us living and
working here I reckon it's time to look up. Our future is exciting
and fills us with confidence, but right now we need a symbol of
hope." Janine Morrell-Gunn
At 6:45pm on the 4th of September a small service will be held
outside the Christchurch Cathedral. The White Lights Of Hope will
be blessed by Dean Peter Beck and Ngai Tahu Kaumatua. As it is
Father's Day the lights will be turned on by Mayor Bob Parker's dad
and a very special young girl and her father. Young Choristers from
the Christchurch Cathedral will sing.
At the same time as The White Lights Of Hope are turned on, all
New Zealanders are invited to join with family, friends and
neighbours in their streets and to shine their own white lights up
into the sky as a show of solidarity and support to the people of
Canterbury. Cantabrian's will be advised of strategic places in
which they may gather to see the lights go on.
"The family and I have had a few nervous nights together in the
dark over the last 12 months. But our trusty torch has always got
us through. It seems where there is light, there is hope. So here's
hoping all New Zealanders will grab a torch and show their support
for our beautiful city. " Jason Gunn.
Westpac Director of Corporate Affairs Sue Foley says Westpac is
delighted to continue its grass roots support of Cantabrians during
this trying year;
"The courage and determination in the face of such a huge personal
loss and adversity is a real testament to Canterbury and its people
who have given so much to the culture and heritage of our nation."
she said.
The Christchurch city night sky will be ignited to bring a
symbolic ray of hope to Cantabrians on the 4th of September.
For Janine Morrell- Gunn the support has been humbling.
"We are humbled by Westpac's gift of the lights. They immediately
embraced the concept and have been amazing to work with. The White
Lights Of Hope say look into your city, the light shines brightly
and your heart beats strong, you aren't alone. Every single New
Zealander supports you."
The White Lights Of Hope service will be broadcast live on TV1
news and simulcast on Newstalk ZB and Classic Hits.
For more information please contact;
Whitebait-TV
Emma Turnbull
DDI 03 345 5433
CELL 0274 339 029
emmat@whitebait-tv.com
Westpac Media Manager
Chris Mirams
CELL 0272371453
