In preparation for this Sunday’s Christmas parade, the Christchurch City Council strongly urges residents not to climb onto shop verandahs, canopies or awnings in hope of better views of the parade.

Some verandas along the parade route are about 100 years old and bearing any more weight than they are designed to take may result in them collapsing, possibly causing serious injury.

"There have been instances in Auckland and Sydney in recent years where spectators trying to get a better view of an event have caused verandahs to collapse causing serious injury", says John Buchan, Building Control Manager, Christchurch City Council. "We do not want this to happen to anyone in Christchurch".

"We hope that everyone can enjoy the parade without any problems but are concerned for the safety of the people watching," says John Buchan.

Council also asks shop owners to stop people from climbing onto their shop verandahs.

Council is speaking to the Police to see what more can be done to safeguard spectators at the parade.

For further information:

John Buchan, Building Control Manager