Latest from Natural Disasters

Christchurch earthquake sightseers risk themselves and others

The growing number of sightseers in central Christchurch are putting themselves and others in danger, say police.

Keep boiling tap water, residents urged

Thousands of Canterbury residents will probably have to keep boiling water until the end of the week to minimise the risk of disease after Saturday's earthquake.

Broker happy at NZX disaster plan

Uninsured face battle for Christchurch earthquake money

An estimated 5000 uninsured homes damaged in the Christchurch earthquake will have to make a case of "true hardship" to be considered for financial help.

<i>Cartoon:</i> Oh, to be so lucky

Earthquake: Inquiry into gastro outbreak

Two families at a welfare centre in the Christchurch suburb of Linwood are battling gastroenteritis with health authorities concerned the infection was due to contaminated water.

Big aftershock could still be coming

Nearly 100 aftershocks have hit so far hit the Canterbury region, and an expert is warning the biggest one could still be to come.

Heavy rain forces road closures in North Island

Slips and surface flooding are causing havoc for motorists in the lower North Island as heavy rain and gale force winds sweep the region.

Christchurch earthquake, <i>Day 3 updates</i>

Tracking today's events as they happen on Day Three of the Christchurch earthquake disaster.

Council faces post earthquake rating cut

Judge warns 'looters' after quake

Anyone caught looting in the wake of Christchurch's devastating earthquake would be harshly treated by the courts, a judge warned today.

Quake could tip over recession-hit businesses

Saturday's earthquake could prove to be the tipping point for some businesses already squeezed by the recession, a Christchurch business leader says.

NZ companies detail impact of earthquake

Lambs drown as rain floods farmland

A severe heavy rain and gale weather warning is in place for much of the country as widespread flooding affects farmers.

Earthquake - how to make an insurance claim

There have been nearly 5,000 insurance claims made already as a result of the Christchurch earthquake, says the Earthquake Commission. Here's how to make a claim.

Still no water for 15pc of Christchurch homes

About 60 streets across Christchurch are still without water this morning as aftershocks continue to shake the city after Saturday's earthquake.

Psychologist warns of delayed earthquake trauma

The emotional trauma of the Christchurch earthquake may not surface for weeks or even months, says a psychologist.

Earthquake costs need to be spread - Key

Cabinet will today meet to get an early overview of the damage caused by the Canterbury earthquake, and John Key says the bill outside private insurance and Earthquake Commission funding will be large.