The New Zealand Government today released information that many home owners across the Christchurch and Canterbury region have been anxious to see.  Following geotechnical reports and consultation with seismologists, the Christchurch central region has now been mapped according to four main colours – Red, Orange, Green and White [DOWNLOAD MAP].  These zoned areas apply only to residential land parcels, and excludes parks, reserves, schools, commercial or crown land.

Red Zone - Land repair would be prolonged and uneconomic. Land in this area has suffered significant and extensive damage; most buildings will be uneconomical to repair; there is a high risk of further damage to land and buildings from low levels of shaking, flooding or spring tides; infrastructure needs to be completely rebuilt; land repair solutions would be difficult to implement, prolonged and disruptive for land owners.

Orange Zone – Further assessment is required. New damage caused by the June 13^th earthquake has meant further assessment is required for these areas; generally land damage ranges from moderate to very severe; many buildings are uneconomic to repair; the extent of infrastructure damage is unclear; detailed assessment is required to determine whether land repair is practical; following further assessment and engineering work, many of these areas may be reclassified as suitable for building.

Green Zone – Repair and rebuild process can begin. No significant land issues prevent rebuilding based on current adopted seismic standards; Insurers can continue claim settlements on repairs and building on individual properties; Department of Building and Housing is preparing engineering guidelines for the rebuild or repair of houses across the Green Zone, noting some properties may require specific engineering design to comply; decisions on when to commence rebuilding or undertaking repairs should take account of ongoing seismic activity and potential for significant aftershocks.

White Zone – Not zoned. Generally applies to areas of the Port Hills, where the June 13^th earthquake caused further extensive damage; mapping and assessment is underway.

To find out how your home might be affected, visit:  www.landcheck.org.nz