Each day, photographer Doc Ross leaves his Sydenham studio and walks into the city centre. He has his camera with him, just a small one. Doc says he likes to remain invisible to his subjects, the people of Christchurch.

At last count he’d taken 17,000 images and most of the people he’s photographed would have no idea their picture had been taken. His is a unique perspective. His images capture not just the physical changes to the city environment, but the emotional transition of its people, too.

He says the central city is busier and the mood brighter now, and has noticed how new retail developments have introduced a younger ‘set’ into the centre of town. But the photographer-cum-philosopher isn’t convinced the rebuild has resulted in an emotionally healthy city.