NZ Parliament removes nearly 3,000 structures from earthquake-prone register

Yesterday Parliament passed the Earthquake-prone Building Amendment Bill, removing about 2,900 buildings—roughly 55% of one outlet register—from earthquake-prone classification. The reform aims to curb costly, often unrealistic remediation by targeting only high-risk unreinforced masonry and vulnerable multi-storey concrete structures in medium and high seismic zones, while low-risk concrete and timber buildings lose the designation.

Councils retain authority to identify overlooked hazards, and seismic zone maps will be updated the day after the law is signed, with the remaining provisions taking effect on July 1 2027. Minister Simon Watts said the changes will save an estimated $8.2 billion and redirect funds toward business growth and jobs. Auckland Mayor Wayne Brown welcomed the legislation, calling it common-sense relief for owners in a region with relatively low earthquake risk. Guidance for implementation is being prepared for public consultation later this year.