Christchurch quakes remembered one year later

Posted: 2012-02-23

The effects of the Christchurch earthquakes in New Zealand are still being felt after a year.

Yesterday - the anniversary of the main quake - Australians remembered the people who were impacted by the disaster and celebrated those who helped Cantabrians, through donations and clean-up assistance.

A statement from Julia Gillard yesterday spoke of the tragedy, the damage done and the long road to recovery that the people of Christchurch have endured.

The quake took its toll on both homes and businesses. While commercial building damage was generally confined to Christchurch's CBD, the NZ Treasury reports that total damages are expected to reach $15 billion.

A report released by the NZ Department of Labour said that 40 per cent of businesses reported lower revenues after the disaster, and many had to relocate.

Staff retention was also said to have been affected, with many residents choosing to leave the area after the quake and thousands of aftershocks.

Having a comprehensive business insurance policy in place before any damage from a natural disaster occurs can assist with the clean-up and recovery stages for your company and its employees. Regular reviewing of your policy to check what you are covered for can be a good idea, in case disaster strikes.