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(Last updated: 12 Apr 2011)
Christchurch Earthquake Current Situation
This database enables Austrade to identify needs and align Australian services and technologies to support the rebuild effort following the devastating earthquakes of 4 September 2010 and 22 February 2011.
We welcome Australian businesses with capabilities across a wide range of sectors to supply skills, resources and technologies for the rebuilding of Christchurch and the restoration of essential infrastructure and services. If you wish to register as a potential supplier please click here:
Registration with Austrade will ensure that:
- Your company’s business details and capabilities are entered on the database of suppliers for earthquake recovery.
- Your company is included in project updates.
- You are promptly notified of relevant opportunities and can discuss these with Austrade staff in market.
- Your business will be included in relevant industry briefings.
Background
On 4 September 2010, a 7.1 earthquake struck Christchurch followed on 22 February 2011 by a 6.3 magnitude earthquake. This caused further significant and widespread damage and over 160 fatalities. Many buildings were destroyed or damaged beyond repair, and much essential infrastructure has been seriously damaged. The Christchurch CBD has been destroyed and rebuilding will take up to 10 years. Australia was involved in rescue and recovery efforts right from the start. Australia continues to stand shoulder to shoulder with New Zealand by assisting with the appropriate introduction of capabilities and resources from Australia.
A Royal Commission has been established and will be chaired by Justice Mark Cooper, a sitting High Court judge. The Commission will provide an interim report in approximately six months and will include recommendations relevant to the construction of new buildings in the Christchurch CBD. The final report due in approximately 12 months will include recommendations on any remaining areas of inquiry.
The New Zealand Government has created a new, stand-alone authority - the Canterbury Earthquake Recovery Authority (CERA). CERA will be in charge of the Christchurch earthquake recovery effort. New Zealand Prime Minister, John Key, says it will provide leadership and coordination of the ongoing recovery effort.
CERA will have a life-span of five years and its operations will be reviewed annually. Its interim chief executive will be Deputy State Service's Commissioner John Ombler.
“Rebuilding Christchurch and the wider region following the earthquakes is one of the government's highest priorities and we are committed to providing the necessary resources to make this happen over the coming weeks, months and years,” Mr Key says.
The New Zealand Government will pay for the rebuilding of Christchurch by borrowing money in the short term, but also by prioritising spending on Canterbury over other forms of Government spending.
The total financial cost of damage from the earthquake is estimated between NZ$10 billion and NZ$15 billion, two to three times the estimated NZ$5 billion cost of the first earthquake last September.
The wider economic impact of the earthquake, combined with slower economic growth than forecast in December, could leave nominal GDP a cumulative NZ$15 billion lower over the five year period to 2015. This is equivalent to approximately 1.5 per cent of the total value of GDP over this period.
The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) provides advice for business travellers and tourists going to New Zealand. This is regularly updated, and should be checked before planning travel.
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