On the 4 September 2010 a powerful earthquake hit the city of Christchurch in the South Island of New Zealand, followed by another massive jolt on 22 February 2011 which killed 185 people and effectively destroyed the historic heart of the city. This was not the end, it was followed by hundreds of aftershocks, and at least two more serious earthquakes.
Christchurch’s February 22 and June 13 combined were second largest behind the Japan tsunami for insured losses of US$14b, ahead of Thailand’s floods where many fewer people are insured.
Christchurch lost more than three-quarters of its hotel rooms, and 70% of its Backpacker rooms.
Read more about Christchurch on our New Zealand Blog with four recent posts
- Among the casualties was a well known Women’s Hostel called Frauenreisehaus – Rosemary interviews the owner Sandra about what happened.
- Explore Akaroa Harbour with Black Cat Cruises
- Post Quake Christchurch
