An army regiment marched its traditional Charter Parade through the streets of Christchurch on Saturday afternoon, for the first time since the removal of the Red Zone cordon in June.
Mayor Lianne Dalziel inspected members of the 2/4 Battalion Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment following its symbolic parade through central city streets.
Ms Dalziel says the Charter Parade is part of a proud tradition and is a chance for the city to honour the battalion, particularly for its support in wake of the February 2011 earthquake.
"Today I particularly wanted to acknowledge your efforts in the days and weeks following the 22nd of February earthquake.
"You were the second wave of response, stepping in to support the emergency services in the immediate aftermath of the disaster. You had our back in Christchurch's time of need."
Lianne Dalziel says the regiment's contribution went well beyond the call of duty.
The battalion was granted the freedom of the city of Christchurch in January 1966 as the 2nd Canterbury, Nelson, Marlborough and West Coast Battalion.
The "freedom" entitles them to march through Christchurch streets with drums beating, band playing, colours flying, bayonets fixed and swords drawn.
On Saturday night, employers of soldiers of the New Zealand Defence Force Reserve Forces were to be acknowledged at a gala dinner.
The Regional Employer Support Awards, which recognise the role of local employers in supporting the training and deployment of New Zealand's Reserve Forces, was to be held at Wigram Air Base.
