A second bill aimed at helping quake-damaged communities has passed in Parliament today.
Earthquake damage at the Waiau Hotel Photo: AFP
The Hurunui/Kaikōura Earthquakes Emergency Relief Bill extends the timeframes for applying for retrospective consent under the Resource Management Act.
This allows utility network companies and rural property owners to carry out emergency work.
The legislation also gives power to local councils to restore the Kaikōura harbours.
The Civil Defence Emergency Management Amendment Bill, which brings forward the start date of recently passed civil defence legislation that can require building owners to undertake earthquake assessments of their properties, was passed earlier this week.
A third bill - which would enable plans and bylaws to be amended by Order in Council - was still making its way through Parliament.