15 May 2014, The Hague

In the course of the FRIENZ project a delegation of NZ scientists, research programme managers and representatives of NZ cities met JPI Urban Europe in the month of May. The discussion showed a high potential for synergies between the NZ approach for resilient cities and our strategic orientation. The showcase of Christchurch (rebuilding main parts of the city from scratch after the big earthquake) underlined the potential for new urban planning, design and management and put emphasis on involving civil society in these processes. Each of the research projects presented by NZ scientists showed a high focus on integrated approaches, including a strong cooperation with urban practitioners. We are investigating how to set up a countervisit to continue the dialogue and develop hopefully towards joint actions.