On September 4th, 2010, a magnitude 7.1 earthquake rocked the Selwyn District and surrounding areas, causing widespread damage. Aftershocks of up to 6.3 magnitude have since rocked the entire Canterbury region, mainly centered on the Greendale fault line (between Darfield and Rolleston) and in the Lyttelton/Sumner area.

For information updates, the latest advice, and links to and information on support services available to help Selwyn residents and businesses recover from these earthquakes and their aftershocks, choose an event from the menu at left or keep in touch via our Facebook page.

Please remember support is also available from the Council on 03 347 2800 or 03 318 8338.

Selwyn District potentially earthquake-prone buildings list updated

Independent engineering reports reviewed by the Canterbury Earthquake Recovery Authority (CERA) have resulted in some changes to Selwyn District’s potentially earthquake-prone buildings list.

In February, the Canterbury Earthquake Recovery Authority (CERA) had sent letters out to the owners of 37 buildings in the Selwyn District asking for them to furnish independent engineering reports outlining how the buildings perform according to the current building code. 

These detailed engineering assessments are now filtering through the CERA process.

Earthquake Relief Fund

The Selwyn Earthquake Relief Fund has been set up to provide assistance for people who were adversely affected by the Canterbury earthquakes.  More information is available on criteria, and you can download an application form or visit Council offices, and library/service centres for copies.

Earthquake Damaged Heritage Buildings Fund

The purpose of the Canterbury Earthquake Heritage Building Fund is to provide assistance to owners of heritage buildings to repair damage caused by the Earthquake of 4 September 2010 and associated aftershocks.

Find out more at www.savecanterburyheritage.org.nz

Where will I live?

Selwyn people are now in the process of figuring out where they might live while repairs are carried out on their homes. For options, contact the Canterbury Earthquake Temporary Accommodation Service (CETAS), 0800 67 32 27 or visit www.quakeaccommodation.govt.nz.

Do I need building consents?

Some repair work will require consents, particularly structural work including bracing. Make sure you check with your builder, or contact the Council’s building department, bca@selwyn.govt.nz, or on 347 2839 (Darfield residents can call the free phone HelpLine 318 8338 and ask for Building Customer Services).