Quentin Davies, Secretary of the Christchurch-Otautahi Agenda 21 Forum, says the meetings promote a very useful information flow between various groups. They have an information sharing rather than any advocacy role. Diana Shand and Di Lucas initiated the meetings in 1989 after they were elected to the Canterbury Regional Council. One objective was to update people on environmental issues. The meetings give groups an opportunity to discuss different ideas and viewpoints.
Visitors often add another perspective.
For years held in private living rooms, the meetings now take place in the Environment Centre, above the Body Shop in Cashel Mall. Anyone interested in environmental issues is welcome to attend the informal meetings. People gather from midday, bringing their lunch. A co-ordinator calls for notices and agenda items and the meeting usually runs from 12.15pm to 1.15pm.