Christchurch has been accredited by the World Health Organisation as an International Safe Community, despite being regarded as one of the most dangerous cities in New Zealand.
The accreditation will be formalised in October but comes after an exhaustive auditing process by WHO representatives.
They take into account the programmes by all of a city's lead agencies before deciding if the city qualifies.
Announcing the award on Friday, Christchurch Mayor Bob Parker says the accreditation is a significant achievement on a world scale.
Mr Parker says a perception remains that Christchurch is not safe, but the hard work by council, police and health agencies is starting to make a difference.
