Stronger Christchurch Update

The Christchurch City Council is working on the recovery phase following the 4 September earthquake

This is focused on the key areas of infrastructure, welfare, buildings, natural environment, business and rural issues. The Council has been in direct contact with those worst affected as well as keeping the community informed through paid advertising, public meetings, website updates, leaflet and letter drops, house and business visits.

During the next phase of the recovery the Council will be putting out regular media updates outlining the current situation across the areas of concern.

Water 

All areas now have water supply returned. There may however be short breaks in the supply if work is being undertaken in the area.

Port-a-loos 

An additional 200 port-a-loos are on their way to Christchurch from the North Island and these will be distributed in the next couple of days where they are needed most.

We would also like to hear from anyone who is in an area where the sewer system has been restored, but there are port-a-loos in place. Please call the call centre 9418999 so they can be redistributed.

Sewer and Stormwater

About 750 homes have been issued with a notice saying there are problems with their drains which will limit their use of toilets, showers and washing machines.

Two hundred homes have a limited sewer service. This means the sewers in this street have been either filled with sand, and/or broken from the earthquake action. Contractors have managed to partially clear the sewers and so a limited service is now available.

Fifty streets were told on Wednesday that their service is fully restored. 

Silt 

The clearing of silt from city streets is being coordinated with priority being given to the worst affect areas. Volunteers are helping with this work.

Welfare 

The Council is working with other agencies such as Ministry of Social Development to pass on any issues as they arise, and make the decision about the best response.  This includes visiting residents at home and putting them in touch with appropriate agencies.

People who have any welfare concerns should contact the Government information line 0800 77 9997 or visit one of the four Recovery centres which are in the central city, Linwood, Hornby and New Brighton.

Communication

Over the past month the Council’s call centre has taken 97,000 calls.