Publications

Annual Report
2006-2007

Highlights

New Claims System

The development of a new internet-based claims management system is well under way. Expected to be operational at the beginning of 2008, the new system will give EQC the reliability and ease-of-use required to deal with the enormous influx of claims that will follow a catastrophic natural disaster. Such an event could generate 100,000 claims – more than 10 times the number the Commission would usually handle in a year.

Back to top

EQC-Funded QuakeTrackers Programme for Seismographs in New Zealand Schools

The QuakeTrackers schools programme, designed to educate students about seismology and to encourage further study in the field, won EQC support during the year. The innovative programme will centre on a network of simple and robust seismographs in schools, the development of educational resources and a website.

Back to top

“It’s Our Fault” Research Project Launched

EQC, along with the Wellington City Council and ACC, launched “It’s Our Fault” in December. “It’s Our Fault” is a major research project to improve understanding of the Wellington region’s vulnerability to large earthquakes. The aim of the seven-year, $3.5 million project, led by GNS Science and involving researchers from NIWA and Victoria University, is to better define Wellington’s earthquake risk using the latest geological techniques and sophisticated computer modelling.

Back to top

New Research Partnership with Auckland University

This year EQC formed a new partnership with the University of Auckland to support research on volcanic hazard and risk, geotechnical engineering and earthquake engineering. The Commission will contribute $1.3 million over five years to the interdisciplinary research that will improve New Zealand’s capacity to assess and mitigate geological risk.

Back to top

Field Office Set up in Whangarei

EQC set up a field office in Whangarei to handle the 630 claims from the March storm and flooding in Northland. Around 20 loss adjusters, estimators and administration staff continue to work out of the office which is expected to stay open until October 2007. A field office in the affected area helps EQC settle claims as quickly as possible and ensures we continually improve the comprehensive arrangements we have in place to respond to natural disasters.

Back to top