Case Studies - Christchurch

Question 1

Location:

Answer 1

• New Zealand is a developed country
• Earthquake struck in Christchurch 22 Feb 2011.
• 6.3 magnitude earthquake and the focus was very shallow at 4.99km deep.
• Earthquake happened on a conservative plate margin between the Pacific Plate and the Australian Plate.

Question 2

Primary Effects:

Answer 2

• 181 people killed
• 2,000 injured
• Over 50% of the city buildings were damaged
• City’s cathedral spire collapsed
• Water and sewage pipes were damaged

Question 3

Secondary Effects:

Answer 3

• Businesses were closed for a long time

- Schools were closed for two weeks due to the damage

Question 4

Short-term Responses:

Answer 4

• International aid was provided of around $7 million
• Aid workers from charities such as the Red Cross came to help
• Areas were zoned to asses damage
• 300 Aus police officers were flown in

Question 5

Long-term Responses:

Answer 5

• Nearly $900 million in building insurance claims
• Water and sewerage were restored to the city by Aug 2011
• Temporary housing was provided