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Powerful earthquake hits New Zealand?s second largest city - Christchurch - September 2010 - January 2011

Re: Powerful earthquake hits New Zealand?s second largest city - Christchurch

Re: Powerful earthquake hits New Zealand?s second largest city - Christchurch

Environment Canterbury says reports of sulphur smells in parts of Christchurch don't appear to be a gas leak.

The mysterious smells, described by some as like the odour of Rotorua, have been investigated by Fire Service and Environment Canterbury's Hazardous Substance team.

At this point they say there is no indication that the smell should be of concern to residents.

It does not appear to be a gas leak, a spokeswoman said.

http://www.starcanterbury.co.nz/local/news/power-restored-following-aftershock/3921876/
 
Re: Powerful earthquake hits New Zealand?s second largest city - Christchurch

Re: Powerful earthquake hits New Zealand?s second largest city - Christchurch

A strong smell of sulphur across Christchurch's eastern suburbs is being noticed following Saturday's devastating 7.1 earthquake, according to WeatherWatch.co.nz.

New Brighton resident David Shone told WeatherWatch that people were noting the smell since Saturday, saying that it smelt similar to Rotorua.

"Even our spring well water has a distinctive sulphur smell, until you boil it and leave it to stand for a while," said Mr Shone.

Twitter user Michaeljrist also told WeatherWatch he was hearing reports of a strong smell of sulphur
http://nz.news.yahoo.com/a/-/top-stories/7903338/sulphur-smell-reported-in-christchurch-suburbs/
No smell of sulphur in water from North-west wells.
 
Re: Powerful earthquake hits New Zealand?s second largest city - Christchurch

Re: Powerful earthquake hits New Zealand?s second largest city - Christchurch

MALAYSIA HAILS NZ EFFORTS TO ENSURE SAFETY IN QUAKE-HIT CHRISTCHURCH




KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 8 (Bernama) -- Malaysia has expressed its appreciation to the New Zealand authorities for helping Malaysian nationals and students in quake-hit Christchurch to ensure their safety and well being.

Malaysian High Commissioner to New Zealand Datuk Hasnudin Hamzah also praised the local communities for their assistance following the devastating 7.1-magnitude earthquake last Saturday.

"Thanks to God Almighty, there was no loss of lives. Our thoughts are with you and those people affected during these difficult and trying times and we pray to God Almighty to shelter us all from such incidents in the future," he said at Malaysia?s 53rd Merdeka Day reception in Wellington on Monday night.

Present were New Zealand?s Minister for Courts Georgina Te Heuheu, Trade Minister Tim Groser and representatives of the New Zealand-Malaysia Business Council and Malaysian student associations there.

The South Island city was reported to have been rattled by aftershocks following the quake -- New Zealand''s biggest in nearly 80 years.

-- MORE
http://malaysia.news.yahoo.com/bnm/20100908/tts-malaysia-nz-with-pix-993ba14.html
 
Re: Powerful earthquake hits New Zealand?s second largest city - Christchurch

Re: Powerful earthquake hits New Zealand?s second largest city - Christchurch

#Christchurch Quake information Update 30
1700hrs, 8 September

New website launched
This afternoon Gerry Brownlee, the Minister responsible for the recovery from the Canterbury earthquake, announced a new website which centralises links to all central and local government agencies and others supporting the response and recovery to the Canterbury earthquake: http://www.canterburyearthquake.govt.nz/

<HR style="COLOR: #e1e1e1" align=left SIZE=5 width="100%" noShade>
IMPORTANT NUMBERS TO RING:
  • <LI type=disc>Earthquake Government Helpline (24 hours): 0800 779 997 <LI type=disc>Healthline (24 hours): 0800 611 116 <LI type=disc>Earthquake Commission (EQC): 0800 DAMAGE 326 243
  • For current updates visit the Environment Canterbury website
For Non-English language speakers who need support, the Language Line service which provides interpreters in forty languages is available via the Earthquake Government Helpline (24 hours): 0800 779 997, and Healthline (24 hours): 0800 611 116

See also: Earthquake welfare information in 40 languages(doc 180k)
<HR style="COLOR: #e1e1e1" align=left SIZE=5 width="100%" noShade>

Emergency Declaration extended for Christchurch City
The state of emergency in Christchurch City has been extended for seven days.

<HR style="COLOR: #e1e1e1" align=left SIZE=5 width="100%" noShade>
Information summary (08/09/2010 1700hrs)

Pockets of electricity, water and sewerage systems remain out. Health concerns remain focused on water supply. All schools and early childhood centres are closed today. Some school boards may decide to open tomorrow, subject to structural engineers and/or health officials declaring the schools safe.


Public access to the Christchurch City and Kaiapoi cordon remains restricted under section 86 of the CDEM Act. Police will maintain the cordon in the CBD and Kaiapoi while the building risk remains.


Cabinet has agreed to provide $5 million to a Joint Mayoral Relief Fund being established by Selwyn District Council, Christchurch City Council and Waimakariri District Council.

  • <LI type=disc>Two welfare centres are open in Christchurch where 285 people stayed overnight. One centre is open in the Waimakariri District. Two information centres are open today in Selwyn District (Rolleston and Darfield) <LI type=disc>Cordons remain in Kaiapo and central Christchurch city, where it has been extended to include Worcester Street <LI type=disc>GPs are seeing an increase in people presenting with stress and anxiety issues, gastroenteritis and repeat prescription
  • All 678 buildings in the CBD have been assessed. Sixty?nine percent have been assessed as safe and others rated as either safe only for limited access or unsafe. The central business district of Kaiapoi is still being assessed with approximately 22 buildings still deemed too dangerous to enter. Demolitions are underway for some critical inner city buildings.
<HR style="COLOR: #e1e1e1" align=left SIZE=5 width="100%" noShade>

Update on Schools

  • <LI type=disc>All schools in the Christchurch City area, Selwyn and Waimakariri will remain closed today Wednesday 8 September. <LI type=disc>Some schools in Christchurch may reopen tomorrow (Thursday) depending on decisions to be made by the Board of Trustees of each school.
  • Parents should attempt to contact their schools for specific information

For further information visit the Ministry of Education website.


See also: Update on school closures (.doc184k)



Aftershocks
An extensive number of aftershocks of up to Magnitude 5.4 have occurred since the magnitude 7.1 earthquake on 4 September. The likelihood of aftershocks of up to around Magnitude 6 will remain for the next week.

Aftershocks will continue to affect response and recovery operations (e.g. rail and buildings). Weather may also affect the response, such as rainfall remobilising silt into wastewater systems. Wind and rain may further compromise damaged buildings.



Welfare
New Welfare Centre in Selwyn
Rolleston Community Centre is now active as a Welfare Centre for all Selwyn Residents. The Community Centre is located at 94 Rolleston Drive. Additional Welfare Centres will be opened in other locations around the District in the next 24 hours.

Two information centres are open today in Selwyn District (Rolleston and Darfield).


The Selwyn District Council is also running a Call Centre - phone 03 347 2800 or 03 318 8338.


There is one centre open in the Waimakariri District.

Two welfare centres are still open in Christchurch. These centres are open 24 hours: Welfare Centres - Canterbury Earthquake (Ministry of Social Development website). 285 people stayed overnight Tuesday in these centres.


Enquiries for emergency assistance payments continue to be made for food, petrol and
accommodation.


GPs are seeing an increase in people presenting with stress and anxiety issues,
gastroenteritis and repeat prescriptions.


Psychosocial needs are gaining importance and likely to continue to increase. A psychosocial support strategy is being developed with welfare and health agencies, including information for first responders.


Ministry of Social Development has made contact with 11,000 out of 18,000 superannuation clients who are living on their own to make sure they are safe. Calls are focussed on those over 80 or with a disability allowance. Home visits will be arranged if contact is not made today.



EQC damage claims
The best option for lodging a claim is likely to be EQC?s website: www.eqc.govt.nz.
Many people have been unable to lodge a claim so far due to over-loading of the lines as well as insufficient numbers of call centre staff to receive claims. EQC is rapidly increasing numbers of lines and call centre staff and expect that the problem will ease over the next few days.

Those with more minor claims are advised to delay contacting EQC for a few days at least and a week or so if possible. However, they do want to hear as soon as possible from those with more major claims such as those involving serious structural damage and those where the habitability of their home is in question.

EQC continues to issue advice on what should and should not be done about any damage and mess.
  • <LI type=disc>If possible, take photos before moving anything or tidying up. That makes assessment of the claim easier <LI type=disc>If you are able to, essential services, like toilets and water systems can be repaired - but people should keep everything the repairer replaces, and keep a copy of the bill
  • Spillages or crockery and glass breakages can be cleared up, but don?t throw anything not perishable away yet. Ruined or spilt food and other perishables can be disposed of, but people should list the items as they bury, burn, or dump them.
More information: See Housing (below)


Offers of assistance
There have been numerous offers of assistance from businesses and members of the public wanting to help. These have been gratefully received. We now have sufficient resources so please do not contact us with additional offers of assistance.


Making a donation to the Canterbury Earthquake Appeal
People wanting to donate goods to those affected by the earthquake are requested to make cash donations instead.
- Make a secure online donation now to the Canterbury Earthquake Appeal
- Make an automatic $20 donation by phoning 0900 33 200
- At any branch of Post Shop Kiwibank, ANZ, National, ASB, BNZ and TSB throughout New Zealand
- At any Red Cross service centre or branch nationwide by sending a cheque (made payable to: New Zealand Red Cross) to: Canterbury Earthquake Appeal, Red Cross House, PO Box 12140, Thorndon, Wellington 6144.

100% of all money donated to the Canterbury Earthquake Appeal will go to the Appeal. More information: www.redcross.org.nz


People asked to put off non-essential travel to Christchurch
People who are planning on visiting Christchurch in the coming week are being advised to put off their travel plans unless it is essential they visit the area. For further information visit the Environment Canterbury website.


Emergency status
No national declaration of emergency has been made.


Christchurch City, Selwyn District and Waimakariri District have declared a state of local emergency. Christchurch City has extended their state of emergency to Wednesday 8 September 2010.

The states of local emergency for Waimakariri District and Selwyn District are in effect for seven days.


Restricted areas
The cordons in central Christchurch city and Kaiapoi are still in place. Waimakariri District Council is reminding people that unless they reside in the Kaiapoi or Coastal beach areas that they should stay away from these areas.

The cordoned area in Christchurch City has been extended to include Worcester Street.


Water and waste water
Potable water remains a concern for all three Territorial Authorities. A ?boil water? notice is in place in parts of all affected areas. Water tankers are delivering water in the Waimakariri District and Christchurch City.


Sewerage and water supply infrastructure continue to be affected in the low lying eastern areas of Christchurch City and Waimakariri District as well as rural areas in Selwyn District.


There is currently discharge into the Halswell River in Selwyn District. For Christchurch City, waste water trunk mains are intact but there is significant localised damage, and the waste water treatment plant is still running on bypass.


Go to the Environment Canterburywebsite for information about emergency water locations.
For information about storing or treating water visit the Get Thru website.



Weather
The weather forecast through to Thursday is for cool conditions and patchy rain, returning to mainly fine conditions on Friday.


Health
Hospitals and medical centres
Christchurch Hospital is on emergency power due to aftershocks. All hospitals are fully operational.


Public Health has had to leave their Emergency Operations Centre in Christchurch City
due to aftershock damage.


Ministry of Health is expressing some concern regarding future staffing, as staff become
fatigued. Ministry of Health is investigating options to provide assistance.


Public Health
Public health remains the main area of concern, with damage to sewerage and water systems expected to cause issues for at least another week. Assistance is being provided from the New Zealand Defence Force and Regional Public Health.


For other health advice call the Healthline: 0800 611 116.
For information on protecting yourself in an emergency, visit the Ministry of Health website.
For advice on food safety visit the New Zealand Food Safety Authoritywebsite.

Building Safety
Local authorities are prioritising and managing the official inspection of buildings.
The City Council will be classifying all buildings in the cordoned-off area?


? Red placards for no entry
? Yellow for restricted use
? Green for no restrictions on a building?s use

Of the buildings in the CBD assessed so far:
? 79% have received a green placard (safe for use)
? 16% have received a yellow placard (limited access allowed, further assessment
needed)
? 5% have received a red placard (considered unsafe, and isolated with barriers)

Property owners should contact their local authority if they have any questions in relation building safety.

More health and safety advice for employers / employees has been issued by the Department of Labour.


Housing
EQC continues to receive claims, both on the 0800 DAMAGE phone number and
through the EQC website. EQC is deploying resources to the region to commence the
assessment process. EQC expects to eventually establish 10 field offices each with
around 40 staff in the region.

As at 0800 hours this morning, EQC has received 27,677 claims. It is expected that
upwards of 100,000 claims will be lodged, but this estimate will be revised. Based on
the likely number and nature of the claims, the total cost to EQC of the disaster is likely
to be at the upper end of earlier estimates

Housing New Zealand is working with Christchurch City Council to prepare a joint response to medium term housing needs.

Building inspections are continuing. Canterbury CDEM Group has sent a request for additional building inspectors to the NCMC. Five district councils have already offered support.

This is to support increased capacity to assess residential properties in the
suburbs of Avonside, Bexley, Brooklyn and Halswell.


Commercial property
All 678 buildings in the CBD have been assessed. Sixty?nine percent have been assessed as safe and others rated as either safe only for limited assess or unsafe. The central business district of Kaiapoi is still being assessed with approximately 22 buildings still deemed too dangerous to enter. Demolitions are underway for some critical inner city buildings.



Correction Facilities
Department of Corrections are transferring prisoners to facilities in other regions.



Urban Search and Rescue (USAR)
Planning has commenced for an end to operations and a return to home locations.
See the New Zealand Fire Service website for more information.



Airport
The airport is open and operational, although there have been temporary closures of the domestic terminal due to aftershocks. The Domestic Terminal at Christchurch Airport has been regularly assessed by engineers to assess its structural viability. Aviation Security and Christchurch International Airport Limited are working together and there have been few flight delays and all security requirements have been met.



Roads
All main urban arterials in Christchurch are open, except those in the CBD area. The State Highway network in Canterbury has been checked, including structural checks.

Bridges have all been checked and culverts are now being checked for displacement. Further damage to roads has, however, been caused by aftershocks. Lyttelton Tunnel has been closed due to suspected damage as a result of the main aftershock this morning.

SH 74 and 77 are closed in places, but detours are available.

The New Zealand Transport Agency has estimated repair costs for the state highway network are in the order of $3.8 million.



Bus
Bus services have recommenced into Christchurch CBD, but will stop short of the restricted area. Drop off points are short of the city cordon and are subject to change as the situation in the city changes.

For further information go to www.metroinfo.co.nz


Port
Lyttelton Port report that the channel has been surveyed and deemed safe for the tanker due on 13 September 2010.



Rail
All lines are now open. The Rangiora?Christchurch, Rolleston?Cass, and Middleton? Ashburton lines are all operating with speed restrictions to manage the risk posed by aftershocks. Tranz Alpine and Tranz Coastal services will resume today. Kiwi Rail indicate the only expensive repair to the rail network expected is at Kaiapoi. It is estimated repairs will not exceed $2 million.


Electricity
There are approx 500 customers across the region without power, and it is anticipated that all will have power by the end of the week. The network however remains vulnerable to aftershocks.


Telecomms
No issues, some limited outages, but services are being restored to normal. In general, systems are holding up reasonably well albeit with some continued reliance on generators, requiring regular fuel top?ups.


Environment
A picture is emerging of significant change to the natural physical environment due to ground displacement and shaking?induced extensive liquefaction, including changes to water courses.


Waste and pollution
Waterways in the affected area are likely to be contaminated with wastewater discharge and from polluted surface runoff.


Farming and agriculture community
There are some concerns about changes to groundwater and therefore to irrigation schemes.



Public Safety Messages
People in the affected area should:

- Boil all water before drinking or consuming with food.

- Expect aftershocks. Each time one is felt, drop, cover, and hold on.

- Assess your home or workplace for damage. If the building appears unsafe get everyone out. When outside, watch out for fallen power lines or broken gas lines. Stay out of damaged areas.

- Look for and extinguish small fires if it is safe to do so. Fire is a significant hazard following earthquakes.

- Listen to the radio for updated emergency information and instructions.

- Do not overload phone lines with non-emergency calls.

- Help people who require special assistance - infants, elderly people, those without transportation, families who may need additional help, people with disabilities, and the people who care for them.

- Detailed safety advice will come from local authorities and emergency services in the area. People should act on it promptly.

.../
http://www.civildefence.govt.nz/memwebsite.nsf
 
Re: Powerful earthquake hits New Zealand?s second largest city - Christchurch

Re: Powerful earthquake hits New Zealand?s second largest city - Christchurch

Earthquake update: September 08, 2010 ? 6.00pm


Boil Water Notice
6.00pm Wednesday 8 September 2010
The Emergency Operations Centre has lifted its boil water notice across the whole of Christchurch City, including Banks Peninsula. Visit www.ccc.govt.nz for details ?​

Metro bus services
5.30pm Wednesday 8 September 2010
Bus services for Christchurch City will resume Thursday 9 September 2010 following further disruption on the morning of September 8 2010. The Bus Exchange will open at 6am and services will run to a normal weekday timetable. The two bus routes still out of action are the 51 New Brighton to Tower Junction and 480 bus to Kainga.​

Message from Mobil: Christchurch fuel supply
4.10pm Wednesday 8 September 2010​

There is no fire or other damage to Mobil oil terminals at Lyttelton and Woolston, or to the pipeline between the two over the Port Hills, which is impacting the supply of fuel to the Christchurch area
  • Mobil is not aware of any fire or significant damage at other oil company facilities, although we cannot speak for other companies
  • There continue to be significant aftershocks in the area following Saturday's major earthquake and when such seismic activity occurs pipeline and other oil transfer operations cease automatically
  • We then need to conduct inspections and testing of our fuel facilities, including the pipeline, to confirm their integrity before recommencing normal fuel supply operations
  • Mobil has sufficient fuel available in our Christchurch terminals to meet current demands
  • In view of the continuing seismic activity in the area and the disruptions that can cause we are managing fuel distribution out of Woolston terminal under standard oil industry "fuel supply coordination" arrangements
  • The next shipment of fuel into Lyttelton is scheduled for next week (Sep 14, with subsequent one on Sep 16)
  • Supplementary fuel supplies are available from other oil company terminals in the South Island (Timaru, Dunedin, Nelson)
  • A number of Mobil service stations (currently 6) in and around Christchurch are not operating either because they are in areas of the city which have been closed to public access or because they have suffered damage which we need to assess/make safe - they are not closed because of any shortage of fuel.
Sulphur Smell
1.40pm Wednesday 8 September 2010
There have been reports of sulphur smells in parts of Christchurch. These have been investigated by Fire Service and Environment Canterbury?s Hazardous Substance team. At this point, there is no indication that the smell should be of concern to residents. It does not appear to be a gas leak.​

Orion position statement
1.30pm Wednesday 8 September 2010
All power has been restored to those customers who lost supply due to the 7:49am after shock this morning. We are now firmly focused on our original target of restoring power to all of our customers by the end of this week. We estimate that there are still several hundred customers without power but it is difficult to give an exact numbers as it is declining all the time. The customers still affected are typically individual customers impacted by each fault which slows progress in getting numbers down. Customers who remain without power please call Orion on 363-9898 to ensure that we have you in our system.​

Environment Canterbury closed Wednesday 8 September 2010
Notices for Environment Canterbury staff ?
Log-in required (using your Environment Canterbury username and password)​

Schools
Civil Defence authorities in Canterbury have advised that schools in Christchurch City, Waimakariri District and Selwyn District will remain closed today, Wednesday 8 September 2010.
Ministry of Education updates about schools and ECE services ?​

Aftershocks
Civil Defence Emergency Management is advising people in Christchurch, Waimakariri and Selwyn districts to be prepared for aftershocks from Saturday?s earthquake for the next few weeks.​

Christchurch water supply
Filling stations have been set up to supply water to residents who do not have tap supply at home.​

Please bring your own containers (20 litres-plus)​


Water is available from tankers at the following locations:
  • Locksley Ave / McBratneys Road, Dallington 2 - 3 pm
  • Anzac Drive / Birch Street, Bexley 2 - 3 pm
  • Palmers Road (Avon River end), New Brighton 4 - 8 pm
  • Central New Brighton School, Hawke Street 4 - 8 pm
  • Rocking Horse Road (north end), South New Brighton 4 - 8 pm
All Christchurch residents are advised to continue to:
  • Conserve water
  • Boil all drinking water for three minutes
  • Be aware that rivers are contaminated
  • If you have water supply, it is OK to flush the toilet
  • If you do not have water supply, you may have to set up a latrine by using a bucket lined with a bin liner of a plastic bag for solids. This can be buried or flushed at a later time.
RIVERS: Waimakariri River no concerns with river peaking
Flow levels near the coast are predicted to be relatively low and there is no danger to the damaged stopbanks on the Waimakariri between state highway one and the coast, now or in the immediate future.​

Bridges update Waimakariri: The Ashley River/Rakahuri bridge at Cones Rd is open. The Williams St bridge over the Kaiapoi River remains closed. The Old Waimakariri Bridge may not be open.​

Welfare centres​

Christchurch City: Customer Services line 941 8999. Welfare centres in the city are at Addington Raceway and Linwood College. www.ccc.govt.nz
Selwyn District: http://canterburyearthquake.org.nz/ Welfare centre open at the Rolleston Community Centre, Rolleston Drive. Any concerns: please phone the Selwyn Council on 347-2800.
Waimakariri District: http://www.waimakariri.govt.nz/services/civil_defence/index.htm If you need welfare support in the first instance, please go to Kaiapoi Rugby Football Clubrooms in Smith Street, Kaiapoi or the Pines Beach Hall.​

Visitors to Christchurch - travel update
Read more.​

Christchurch International Airport: is fully operational.​

Lyttelton Port of Christchurch - Operational Status (September 06, 2010, 12.30 pm)
Lyttelton Port of Christchurch (LPC) is fully operational following an extensive assessment by structural engineers. Read more...​

Waste and Hazardous Substances: Procedures for Liquids Waste Contactors
Find out more...
Hazardous Substances:
The Department of Labour advice for businesses. Find out more...
If you discover your hazardous substances or tanks have been ruptured or had spills on your business site, you must take action. Read more.​

 
Re: Powerful earthquake hits New Zealand?s second largest city - Christchurch

Re: Powerful earthquake hits New Zealand?s second largest city - Christchurch

Brunei Students in safe condition

2010-09-08 22:00:00

Five Brunei Darussalam students who are currently studying in New Zealand are reported to be in a safe condition, following the earthquake that hit Christchurch since the 4th of September. This was disclosed by the High Commissioner of Brunei Darussalam to New Zealand, Her Excellency Datin Tan Bee Yong.

The students who are under education scholarships at the Christchurch Medical School, University of Otago, Christchurch are reported to be safe...

http://www.rtbnews.rtb.gov.bn/?c=newsDetail&news_id=12861
 
Re: Powerful earthquake hits New Zealand?s second largest city - Christchurch

Re: Powerful earthquake hits New Zealand?s second largest city - Christchurch

New Zealand earthquake splits house in two <!-- google_ad_section_end(name=story_headline) --><!-- // .story-headline -->
  • Cameron Stewart, in Christchurch
  • From: <CITE>The Australian </CITE>
  • September 08, 2010 12:00AM

591047-hugh-foster.jpg

<!-- // .image-frame -->Hugh Foster stands in the fissure that runs through his house and yard in Kaiapoi, Christchurch. Picture: Lyndon Mechielsen Source: The Australian
<!-- // .caption --><!-- // .tabs .js-tabbed --><!-- // .article-media --><!-- google_ad_section_start(name=story_introduction, weight=high) -->

FOR Gary Owers and his wife, Judy, the Christchurch earthquake not only shook their house but speared it in two. <!-- google_ad_section_end(name=story_introduction) -->

<!-- // .story-intro --><!-- google_ad_section_start(name=story_body, weight=high) -->
A faultline parted their lawn like an arrow, continuing through their house before going out through the garage and into the neighbour's yard.

"It was like an explosion with the sound of wood splitting," Mr Owers recalled.

"Then my wife ran down the hallway and fell into a hole because the fault had gone across the hallway."

That same 1m-wide fault also ran clean through the loungeroom and yard of Hugh Foster, another resident of the outer-northwestern suburb of Kaiapoi.

The suburb was among the hardest hit by last Saturday's devastating 7.1-magnitude earthquake.

"The engineer said he had never before seen a faultline come right through the middle of a house," Mr Foster said.

His home will now have to be demolished.

For the people of Kaiapoi, a housing estate suburb on Christchurch's outer fringe, the quake has caused extensive damage, posing serious questions about whether this well-planned suburb can survive.

.../
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/new...its-house-in-two/story-e6frg6nf-1225915568329
 
Re: Powerful earthquake hits New Zealand?s second largest city - Christchurch

Re: Powerful earthquake hits New Zealand?s second largest city - Christchurch

Environment Canterbury is warning the lower reaches of the Waimakariri River have been contaminated as waste from the earthquake-hit region is diverted into the water.

To avoid further strain on the Christchurch sewage system, waste such as milk and alcohol from warehouses in the region has been diverted into the river.

Hazardous Substances co-ordinator Don Chittock said rather than the waste spilling over the ground and contaminating water supply, it was temporarily getting flushed out to sea.

"It's a short term solution. The river does have a fairly high flow and we're not putting any chemicals down there," Mr Chittock said.

"We don't want it to go through the sewerage system which is already full to capacity."

The waste is entering the river through a outfall near McLeans island.

The public are advised to avoid contact with any river and sea water at the moment, and especially to avoid drinking the water or collecting fish or shellfish.

http://www.stuff.co.nz/national/canterbury-earthquake/4109798/Quake-Waimakariri-River-contaminated
 
Re: Powerful earthquake hits New Zealand?s second largest city - Christchurch

Re: Powerful earthquake hits New Zealand?s second largest city - Christchurch

Earthquake email advice 'dangerous'
By IAN STEWARD - The Press
Last updated 10:25 09/09/2010

Authorities are warning against following a controversial method of surviving an earthquake called the "Triangle of Life".

National Crisis Management Centre issued a statement this morning condemning email-circulated, "dangerous" advice that "people who get under objects, like desks or cars, are crushed".

The triangle theory says that people should seek refuge next to something that will support falling debris and create a triangular "void" for people to survive in.

The Civil Defence & Emergency Management Ministry, the New Zealand Society for Earthquake Engineering, the Earthquake Commission (EQC) and GNS Science all denounced the theory after queries were received from MPs, schools, Citizens' Advice Bureaux, media and members of the public.

Civil Defence director John Hamilton said when an earthquake starts, the best advice was still to "drop, cover and hold".

"With the continuing aftershocks in the Canterbury region it is especially important the 'drop cover and hold' advice continues to be followed."

"Drop, cover and hold" was based on international best practice, he said.

"In a severe earthquake it is absolutely vital that people respond immediately. Confusion about what to do can result in people getting seriously injured or killed"

"Our advice is to identify safe places in your home, office or school before an earthquake so that when the shaking starts you can respond quickly."

http://www.stuff.co.nz/the-press/news/4111417/Earthquake-email-advice-dangerous
 
Re: Powerful earthquake hits New Zealand?s second largest city - Christchurch

Re: Powerful earthquake hits New Zealand?s second largest city - Christchurch

Christchurch Earthquake ? Use of portaloos (11am, 9 September 2010)

9 September 2010

There are 252 portaloos at locations affected by water and waste issues around the city.

People are asked not to place plastic bags in the portaloos as this causes blockages.

http://www.ccc.govt.nz/thecouncil/newsmedia/mediareleases/2010/201009091.aspx
 
Re: Powerful earthquake hits New Zealand?s second largest city - Christchurch

Re: Powerful earthquake hits New Zealand?s second largest city - Christchurch

#Christchurch Quake information Update 39

1236hrs, 9 September


New all of government website
A new website which centralises links to all central and local government agencies and others supporting the response and recovery to the Canterbury earthquake has now been established:

www.canterburyearthquake.govt.nz



<HR style="COLOR: #e1e1e1" align=left SIZE=5 width="100%" noShade>

IMPORTANT NUMBERS TO RING:
Earthquake Government Helpline (24 hours): 0800 779 997
Healthline (24 hours): 0800 611 116
Earthquake Commission (EQC): 0800 DAMAGE 326 243
For current updates visit the Environment Canterbury website

For Non-English language speakers who need support, the Language Line service which provides interpreters in forty languages is available via the Earthquake Government Helpline (24 hours): 0800 779 997, and Healthline (24 hours): 0800 611 116


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Latest information(09/09/2010, 1208hrs)


Summary of latest information (11.15am)
Christchurch City, Selwyn District and Waimakariri District have declared a state of local emergency. Christchurch City has extended their state of emergency until midday Wednesday 15 September 2010. Selwyn District?s state of emergency is due to terminate on Saturday (and this is being reviewed daily). Waimakariri District s state of emergency is also in place until Saturday, however, this is likely to be extended through the weekend.


Three aftershocks of a magnitude greater than four occurred this morning (Thursday 9 September) 4.5 magnitude at 0249 hours; 4.2 at 0614hours and 4.0 at 0649hours.


Some people report that the magnitude 5.1 earthquake of yesterday morning at 0749 hours was more violent than the original earthquake. This is likely due to epicentre of the aftershock being located closer to Christchurch City.


Geonet advises that aftershocks will occur at gradually decreasing frequency and magnitude. The possibility of a large aftershock up to magnitude 6 remains though will also decrease in likelihood overtime.


Public services continued to be restored despite disruption caused by aftershocks. The pace of restoration of some systems is slowing as the remaining outages are likely to be more time intensive to fix or will restore fewer customers than the systems already re?established.


Welfare centres continue to support displaced people in the affected area. Effort is shifting towards conducting needs assessments of affected members of the public. Welfare staff are operating alongside building inspectors to ensure that the appropriate services are provided, including psycho?social support, to residential population.


Additional resources from across the country are being deployed to the Canterbury region to support the response and recovery process. At least 84 building inspectors from territorial authorities have been identified to support building assessment. Additional public information management and emergency operation centre staff from other regions are also being dispatched.


The New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) continues to provide manpower and administration support to police in Christchurch and yesterday moved 124 prisoners out of the Christchurch region. NZDF will continue flying prisoners today, and it is anticipated that a further 186 prisoners will be moved today.


The regional and national recovery framework has been established. Recovery task groups are meeting today to outline their action plans. Cabinet has agreed to provide $5 million to a Joint Mayoral Relief Fund being established by Selwyn District Council, Christchurch City Council, and Waimakariri District Council.


The Government has set aside $2.4million for trauma counselling services for those affected by the Canterbury earthquake.


The Government has announced the Earthquake Support Subsidy ? a package for employers with fewer than 20 staff to assist them to pay their employees if they are unable to open for business or have reduced capacity following the earthquake. Businesses can apply from today and will be paid within 24 hours.

(See further updated details below)

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(Updates 09/09/2010, 1236hrs)


Emergency status
No national declaration of emergency has been made.

Christchurch City, Selwyn District and Waimakariri District have declared a state of local emergency. Christchurch City has extended their state of emergency until midday Wednesday 15 September 2010.


Restricted areas
The cordon in central Christchurch city is still in place, and is being reduced where possible. The Kaiapoi CBD opened on Wednesday and access is possible outside the hours of 1800 to 0700.


Weather
No major weather events



Water
The Emergency Operations Centre has lifted its boil water notice across the whole of Christchurch City, including Banks Peninsula.
Selwyn has lifted notice for city water, but rural areas with their own water supply must still boil before drinking.

Waimakariri District has lifted its boil water notice, EXCEPT for the following areas:
  • <LI type=disc>Kaiapoi <LI type=disc>Waikuku Beach <LI type=disc>Pines Beach/Kairaki <LI type=disc>Woodend Township
  • Woodend Beach
Four teams from Wellington and three teams from Auckland of local authority water contractors are deploying to Canterbury to support restoration of water and sewerage services.

For information about storing or treating water visit the Get Thru website.
For further information go to Environment Canterburywebsite.


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Schools
Schools can open today (check with your school)
Schools in Canterbury with safe buildings and facilities can operate from today, Thursday 9 September.


Individual boards of trustees are making the decision on opening after they have received information on
  • <LI type=disc>structural integrity <LI type=disc>site safety and access, <LI type=disc>water supply and
  • the general environment
Parents and caregivers should contact the school administration to confirm prior to sending children to school.

Latest updates of schools that have reopened are now available on the Ministry of Education website.


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Bus
Bus services have resumed to most areas, except in a small part of Christchurch CBD and some suburbs.


Bus services in Christchurch City
Metro Bus services for Christchurch City are in operation today, Thursday 9 September 2010. Services will run to a normal weekday timetable.

A decision on opening the Bus Exchange will be made at around midday. The Metro Info kiosk will be open from 7.30 am as usual.

Victoria Street is closed between Salisbury Street and Bealey Avenue and diversions are in place.

The two bus routes still out of action are the 51 New Brighton to Tower Junction and the 480 bus to Kainga.

For further information go to www.metroinfo.co.nz


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Welfare
Four welfare centres are open where you can go if you need urgent emergency assistance: Welfare Centres - Canterbury Earthquake (Ministry of Social Development website).

Addington and Linwood centres are open 24 hours. These two welfare centres accommodated 350 people overnight .


The Kaiapoi centre is open 8.30am - 9pm and Rolleston 9am - 6.30pm.


The Selwyn District Council is also running a Call Centre - phone 03 347 2800 or 03 318 8338.


Critical people needs
A multi?agency project coordinated by civil defence emergency management (CDEM) and focusing on the eastern suburbs of Christchurch commences today with approximately 3600 households to be visited. Teams comprising a building inspector and two welfare staff will be door knocking and making assessments.


Door to door assessments have also commenced in Kaiapoi focusing on the worst affected properties.


A fact sheet providing information on a variety of needs will be available on the Ministry of Social Development (MSD) website shortly.


Emphasis is now on psychosocial needs. A psychosocial support strategy is being developed with welfare and health agencies, including information for first responders.


The National Welfare Coordination Group (which meets daily) is identifying additional psychosocial support resources. Distribution of informational flyers produced by Canterbury Mental Health Service and Victim Support has commenced.


The establishment of community recovery centres involving a range of agencies is being considered.


Agencies are identifying volunteers that can be rapidly mobilised into Canterbury to provide support.


GPs are seeing an increase in people presenting with stress and anxiety issues, gastroenteritis and repeat prescriptions.


MSD is making contact with 18,000 superannuation clients who are living on their own to make sure they are safe. Calls are focussed on those over 80 or with a disability allowance.


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Health
Hospitals and medical centres
All hospitals are fully operational. Non essential services remain curtailed. Public Health left their Emergency Operations Centre in Christchurch City due to aftershock damage and have relocated to Princess Margaret Hospital.

Ministry of Health is deploying clinical staff from other regions to manage hospital staff fatigue.

Public Health
Public health remains the main area of concern, with damage to sewerage and water systems expected to cause issues for at least another week. Assistance is being provided from the New Zealand Defence Force and Regional Public Health.


For other health advice call the Healthline: 0800 611 116.
For information on protecting yourself in an emergency, visit the Ministry of Health website.
For advice on food safety visit the New Zealand Food Safety Authoritywebsite.


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Building Safety
Local authorities are prioritising and managing the official inspection of buildings.

The City Council has classified all buildings in the cordoned-off area?

  • <LI type=disc>Red placards for no entry <LI type=disc>Yellow for restricted use
  • Green for no restrictions on a building?s use
Of the buildings in the CBD assessed so far:
  • <LI type=disc>79% have received a green placard (safe for use) <LI type=disc>16% have received a yellow placard (limited access allowed, further assessment needed)
  • 5% have received a red placard (considered unsafe, and isolated with barriers)
Property owners should contact their local authority if they have any questions in relation building safety.

More health and safety advice for employers / employees has been issued by the Department of Labour.


The New Zealand Society for Earthquake Engineering (NZSEE) Building Safety Evaluation Guidelines provide guidance for Territorial Authority Building Control Managers to prepare for, implement and manage building structural safety evaluation activities after major earthquakes or other disaster events, and for engineers and others assisting with the process in the field. You can find the information here:


Housing
EQC continues to receive claims, both on the 0800 DAMAGE phone number and through the EQC website. EQC is deploying resources to the region to commence the assessment process. EQC expects to eventually establish 10 field offices each with around 40 staff in the region, including staff recruited from Australia.

As at 0700 hours this morning, EQC has received 33,757 claims. It is expected that upwards of 100,000 claims will be lodged, but this estimate will be revised. Based on the likely number and nature of the claims, the total cost to EQC of the disaster is likely to be at the upper end of earlier estimates Housing New Zealand is working with Christchurch City Council to prepare a joint response to medium term housing needs.

Building inspections are continuing. Canterbury CDEM Group has sent a request for additional building inspectors to the NCMC and at least 84 inspectors have been offered by territorial authorities for deployment so far. This is to support increased capacity to assess residential properties in the suburbs of Avonside, Bexley, Brooklands and Halswell.


Commercial property
Sixty-nine percent have been assessed as safe and others rated as either safe only for limited assess or unsafe. Demolitions are underway for some critical inner city buildings.

The central business district of Kaiapoi is still being assessed with approximately 22 buildings still deemed too dangerous to enter and 33 have restricted access.


EQC damage claims
The best option for lodging a claim is likely to be EQC?s website: www.eqc.govt.nz.

Many people have been unable to lodge a claim due to over-loading of the lines as well as insufficient numbers of call centre staff to receive claims. EQC is rapidly increasing numbers of lines and call centre staff and expect that the problem will ease over the next few days.

Those with more minor claims are advised to delay contacting EQC for a few days at least and a week or so if possible. However, they do want to hear as soon as possible from those with more major claims such as those involving serious structural damage and those where the habitability of their home is in question.


EQC continues to issue advice on what should and should not be done about any damage and mess.
  • <LI type=disc>If possible, take photos before moving anything or tidying up. That makes assessment of the claim easier <LI type=disc>If you are able to, essential services, like toilets and water systems can be repaired - but people should keep everything the repairer replaces, and keep a copy of the bill
  • Spillages or crockery and glass breakages can be cleared up, but don?t throw anything not perishable away yet. Ruined or spilt food and other perishables can be disposed of, but people should list the items as they bury, burn, or dump them.
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Correction Facilities
Significant damage sustained to Christchurch Men?s and Christchurch Women?s Prisons has led to the decision by Department of Corrections to transfer prisoners to facilities in other regions. The women prisoners have been transferred to Auckland and a large a number of men relocated to Otago. With South Island prisons at peak capacity, there is a requirement to move the remaining male prisoners to North Island facilities. A request has been made to the NZDF for support in the transport of some of the prisoners.



Urban Search and Rescue (USAR)
As of midday yesterday, a total of 700 to 800 tasks have been completed with 300 calls still logged for USAR teams, mostly as the result of subsequent damage from aftershocks. USAR teams are being rotated to manage staff fatigue.

See the New Zealand Fire Service website for more information.



Airport
The airport is open and operational. Following the aftershocks the airport terminal buildings have been certified by civil engineers as completely safe and secure.


Roads
All main urban arterials in Christchurch are open, except those in the CBD area (due to the threat from damaged buildings).

State Highway 1 ? Chaney?s on?ramp (near Belfast on the Northern motorway) is closed.

Repairs are going well and it is anticipated it will be open to traffic by the end of the week.

State Highway 74 to Lyttelton has detours in place that are suitable for small vehicles but not large trucks. It is anticipated that this may open to two lanes by this afternoon.

The Heathcote underpass is closed on State Highway 74 due to a rock hazard and this may take several days to resolve. A decision on reopening the highway will be made at midday today and it is possible this may reopen tomorrow.

State Highway 77 in mid Canterbury is open with a two kilometre signposted detour from Glentunnel to Glenroy. This detour will remain in place for some time as the slip is still moving. Permanent repairs are expected in the next two weeks.

Local roads are being surveyed by the respective City and District Councils. Flooding, failures and major cracking in roads is causing some road closures or restrictions, but these are isolated and detours are available. Bridges and roads are being repaired throughout the affected area. No estimated of repair costs is available for Christchurch City or Waimakariri District, but Selwyn District estimates the likely cost of roading repairs to be between $2 ? $3 million. A more accurate picture of costs is expected in the next four weeks.

NZTA advises essential travel only in Christchurch and Canterbury region.

The New Zealand Transport Agency has re?estimated repair costs for the state highway network are in the order of $6?10 million. No estimate is available for the cost of repairs to local roads.



Bus
Bus services have resumed to most areas, except in a small part of Christchurch CBD and some suburbs.

Metro Bus services for Christchurch City are in operation today, Thursday 9 September 2010. Services will run to a normal weekday timetable.

A decision on opening the Bus Exchange will be made at around midday. The Metro Info kiosk will be open from 7.30 am as usual.

For further information go to www.metroinfo.co.nz



Port
Lyttelton Port is fully operational, however, its operations have been halted regularly due to the aftershocks to reassess the situation. The port has sustained some damage, including serious damage to the 180m long Cashin Wharf and minor damage in the coal loading area.

The cost of damage to the port facilities is estimated to be in the tens of millions of dollars.



Rail
All lines are now open. KiwiRail reports stable conditions overnight, however, aftershocks are still a concern for moving trains. KiwiRail has completed an assessment of risks with assistance from seismologists and have placed speed restrictions on trains within the Ashburton/Lyttelton/Rangiora and Rolleston?Cass areas.

Kiwi Rail indicate the only expensive repair to the rail network expected is at Kaiapoi. It is estimated repairs will not exceed $2 million.



Electricity
Orion estimated at 1330 hours on Wednesday that there were still several hundred customers without power. It is anticipated that all will have power by the end of the week. The network however remains vulnerable to aftershocks.

MainPower has installed 5 generators in Kaiapoi As a result, most areas of Kaiapoi should have their electricity supply restored. Remaining infrastructure issues such as leaning poles, services off barge boards etc will be addressed over the coming days.


Gas
Gas deliveries are back to normal business operations.


Petroleum
Mobil has announced they have sufficient fuel available in its Christchurch terminal to meet current demands. Disruption caused by the seismic activity to the oil pipeline and other fuel transfers are being managed through managing fuel distribution out of the Woolston terminal.


Telecomms
Services are being restored to normal. In general, systems are holding up reasonably well albeit with a decreasing reliance on generators and back-up power.



Environment
A picture is emerging of significant change to the natural physical environment due to ground displacement and shaking?induced extensive liquefaction, including changes to water courses.

Waste water (sewerage)
Sewerage continues to be an issue for Waimakariri and Selwyn Districts and parts of Christchurch City.

Waste and pollution
Waterways in the affected area are likely to be contaminated with wastewater discharge and from polluted surface runoff.

ECAN has crews inspecting industrial areas for any contaminants released to the environment.

Stopbanks
Stopbanks continue to be inspected. Repairs are targeting weak spots with the aim to bring these up to a 20?30 year return period flood efficacy. This should be completed over the next week.

Farming and agriculture community
Farming community and agriculture A Rural Recovery Group for the Canterbury region has been established with MAF as the lead agency. A rural recovery coordinator has been appointed today. This group is to ensure coordination among the various groups working in rural areas. They will be located in Selwyn District Council offices.

Federated Farmers has staff in the field visiting farmers. A farmers meeting will be held in Darfield on Thursday 9 September to discuss recovery. Dairy New Zealand have staff visiting affected farmers. There are 71 badly affected farms.

There is growing concerns with effluent management and farm infrastructure damage.

Federated Farmers is urging farmers to seek assistance. Farmers can call 0800 327 646.


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Public Safety Messages

Discredited earthquake safety advice circulated in NZ

New Zealand agencies involved in promoting earthquake safety are concerned that advice from a source discredited overseas is being circulated by email in New Zealand. More information
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Donations

There have been numerous offers of assistance from businesses and members of the public wanting to help. These have been gratefully received. We now have sufficient resources so please do not contact us with additional offers of assistance.


Making a donation to the Canterbury Earthquake Appeal
People wanting to donate goods to those affected by the earthquake are requested to make cash donations instead.
- Make a secure online donation now to the Canterbury Earthquake Appeal
- Make an automatic $20 donation by phoning 0900 33 200
- At any branch of Post Shop Kiwibank, ANZ, National, ASB, BNZ and TSB throughout New Zealand
- At any Red Cross service centre or branch nationwide by sending a cheque (made payable to: New Zealand Red Cross) to: Canterbury Earthquake Appeal, Red Cross House, PO Box 12140, Thorndon, Wellington 6144.

100% of all money donated to the Canterbury Earthquake Appeal will go to the Appeal. More information: www.redcross.org.nz


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Travel to Christchurch

People asked to put off non-essential travel to Christchurch
People who are planning on visiting Christchurch in the coming week are being advised to put off their travel plans unless it is essential they visit the area. For further information visit the Environment Canterbury website.

.../
http://www.civildefence.govt.nz/memwebsite.nsf
 
Re: Powerful earthquake hits New Zealand?s second largest city - Christchurch

Re: Powerful earthquake hits New Zealand?s second largest city - Christchurch

Around one quarter of the homes in Kaiapoi have been deemed ?unsafe?, with residents forced to abandon their properties.

Ninety-seven properties have been ?red stickered? while the most of the remaining houses are under some form of restricted access.

"Our initial assessments have only been to ensure the health and safety of residents in their homes," David Ayers, Waimakariri Civil Defence controller, told news websites.

Some residents will be allowed to return later to collect possessions, but some houses are considered too unsafe even for that.

http://www.3news.co.nz/Quake-updates-53-quake-in-Hawkes-Bay/tabid/423/articleID/175070/Default.aspx
 
Re: Powerful earthquake hits New Zealand?s second largest city - Christchurch

Re: Powerful earthquake hits New Zealand?s second largest city - Christchurch

Today our home was visited by Christchurch City Council/ Urban Search and Rescue.

They asked a series of questions:
How many people lived in the house. Ages of children.
Was any one traumatized.
Did we want counseling.
Do we had enough food and money to last a week.
Has any one lost their job due to the earthquake.
Did any one have any serious illnesses.
Did we have any problems getting any necessary medications

We were given information sheets on "How to cope with a disaster" and advice on "How to avoid getting sick with stomach bugs and other illnesses"

They also assessed the outside of the building and taped on a green placard to say it was safe.
 
Re: Powerful earthquake hits New Zealand?s second largest city - Christchurch

Re: Powerful earthquake hits New Zealand?s second largest city - Christchurch

I'm glad your home got green stickered, Sally, and hope Kiwibird and Roehl get an all clear on their homes, too. Most of all I was very relieved reading through the thread to see that everyone is unharmed. It seemed miraculous that the number of injuries were as low as they were, though I know not everyone was lucky.

Your power and Internet infrastructure are amazing! I hope international aid will help with some of the other damages as far as bringing in water and food if needed over the next few weeks and whatever else can help. I was sad to read about domestic stress increasing but can totally understand that living in earthquake country myself.
 
Re: Powerful earthquake hits New Zealand?s second largest city - Christchurch

Re: Powerful earthquake hits New Zealand?s second largest city - Christchurch

100,000 houses damaged by New Zealand earthquake as repair bill tops ?1.8bn

<SCRIPT type=text/javascript src="http://scripts.dailymail.co.uk/js/diggthis.js"></SCRIPT>
By James White
Last updated at 1:13 PM on 9th September 2010


The cost of repairing the damage sustained during the 7.1-magnitude New Zealand earthquake will reach more than ?1.8bn, it was estimated today.

The NZ $4bn bill was almost double initial figures which rose as the government agreed to pay a subsidy to businesses in order to continue paying wages despite being closed.

A total of 100,000 houses were damaged by the earthquake and more than 30 aftershocks, with 500 buildings condemned so far.

New Zealanders continued to pull together to repair the paralysed city of Christchurch which still remains in a state of emergency.

Treasury Secretary John Whitehead revealed the damage assessment after Prime Minister John Key predicted the weekend earthquake would hurt economic recovery from an 18-month recession...

article-1310461-0B19E207000005DC-186_634x371.jpg
Cracking up: A young man walks in a large earthquake crack in the ground in Kaiapoi near Christchurch, New Zealand following the 7.1-magnitude earthquake which is set to cost ?1.8bn to repair damage



Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/wor...nd-earthquake-damage-1-8bn.html#ixzz0z3Aqj5BW
 
Re: Powerful earthquake hits New Zealand?s second largest city - Christchurch

Re: Powerful earthquake hits New Zealand?s second largest city - Christchurch

Heart attacks

But one side effect of Saturday's 7.1 earthquake and the many aftershocks had been a record number of heart attacks, The Press reported.

Dr David Smyth, clinical director of cardiology at Christchurch Hospital, said patients were saying when the quake hit they got pains and every major aftershock had triggered more.

The heart unit usually had about 50 beds for Canterbury patients as well as taking transfers from Ashburton, the West Coast and Timaru.
Advertisement

Yesterday morning there were 68 cardiology patients in the hospital, after a record 77 on Monday.

Smyth said the service usually dealt with two or three heart-attack patients a day, but since Saturday had been seeing eight to 10 daily.

"It's undoubtedly due to the quake. It's well documented that natural disasters do this. It's not people panicking, just the sudden surge of adrenaline."

Adrenaline damaged the inside arteries of the heart, creating blood clots that caused heart attacks, he said.

http://tvnz.co.nz/national-news/quake-cordon-stays-amid-safety-concerns-3769848
 
Re: Powerful earthquake hits New Zealand?s second largest city - Christchurch

Re: Powerful earthquake hits New Zealand?s second largest city - Christchurch

Building standards raised

NewstalkZB | 11:18am Fri 10 Sep 2010

Earthquake strengthening standards in Christchurch have been pushed up dramatically after a meeting this morning.

The Christchurch City Council has unanimously agreed to raise the bar for the reconstruction of quake affected buildings.

Under previous legislation, restored buildings must have been strengthened to up to 33% of the building code.

Now that figure is 67%.

Some councillors expressed concerns that the new bottom line would sway developers to demolish, rather than rebuild

http://clearnet.co.nz/news-story.html?national~795766
 
Re: Powerful earthquake hits New Zealand?s second largest city - Christchurch

Re: Powerful earthquake hits New Zealand?s second largest city - Christchurch

#Christchurch Quake information Update 42

1522hrs, 11 September

LATEST UPDATE

Canterbury continuing to restore services

Civil Defence Director John Hamilton says agencies in the Canterbury region are continuing to restore services gradually.

The region continues to experience aftershocks though the frequency is declining.

“While progress is being made on restoring services, the pace of restoration is slowing because remaining outages is taking longer to fix,” said Mr Hamilton.

“Welfare centres are continuing to support people in need with 231 people being accommodated in the Christchurch city welfare centres overnight. The emphasis is now on assessing the needs of affected people.

“Additional building inspectors, public information officers, welfare officers and emergency operation centre staff are providing support in the affected areas.”

The cordon in the Christchurch CBD has been lifted but some restrictions remain to ensure safety and clean-up work can go ahead.

A Canterbury Recovery Strategy will be completed today by the Canterbury Civil Defence and Emergency Management Group. The establishment of the Canterbury Earthquake Appeal Commission was announced yesterday. The commission will be assigned the task of terms of reference and disbursements to the Canterbury Earthquake Appeal.

By 9.00am today the 0800 Government helpline (0800 779 997) had received almost 10,000 calls, with calls continuing to focus on damage to property, employment subsidies and food grants.

Local State of Emergency declarations remain in place in Christchurch city, Selwyn District and Waimakiriri District. More >>


http://www.civildefence.govt.nz/memwebsite.nsf
 
Re: Powerful earthquake hits New Zealand?s second largest city - Christchurch

Re: Powerful earthquake hits New Zealand?s second largest city - Christchurch

Links to websites providing the latest national and local news about the earthquake

Essential contacts

Earthquake Government Helpline (24 hours): 0800 779 997

A 24/7 service for people requiring information on income support, housing options, health issues, community assistance, Civil Defence or any other government service.


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Healthline (24 hours): 0800 611 116

The service is staffed by registered nurses who will assess your health needs, and give information and advice to help you decide on the best level of care.


<HR style="MARGIN: 0.75em 0pt">
Earthquake Commission (EQC): 0800 DAMAGE (0800 326 243)

For information on EQC?s insurance cover, cleaning up and making a claim.


<HR style="MARGIN: 0.75em 0pt">
Christchurch City Council information helpline: 03 941 8999

For assessment of major structural damage to your home or business premises or for help with essential council services such as water supply or sewage disposal.


<HR style="MARGIN: 0.75em 0pt">
Federated Farmers helpline: 0800 FARMING (0800 327 646)

For information, advice and contacts for Canterbury farmers (weekdays 8.30am - 5pm). Operating this weekend September 11-12.

Follow us on Twitter: @CEQgovtnz



http://www.canterburyearthquake.govt.nz/
 
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