Most schools report little or no damage from earthquakes

23 July 2013

Most schools report little or no damage from earthquakes

The Ministry of Education says most school buildings appear to have come through Sunday’s earthquake and aftershocks with little or no damage.

Deputy Secretary, Regional Operations, Katrina Casey, says there have been only a few reports of specific damage, but more detailed inspections are being carried out today.

“Clearly our top priority is making sure buildings are safe for students and school staff and we began work on that immediately after Sunday’s earthquake.

“We’re fortunate it’s the school holidays, but want to make sure everything is being done before start of term next week to verify the state of buildings and address any issues.

“At this stage we’re aware of masonry falling at Wellington High School, some stairwell damage at Wellington Girls’ College and ceiling cracks at Wairau Valley School. But otherwise we’ve only been informed of cosmetic damage.”

Ms Casey says multi-storey, heavy-roofed and masonry constructed school buildings in Wellington and Marlborough have been prioritised for structural assessments.

“Those assessments will identify any issues that may need to be addressed and we will work closely with schools to make sure that happens as quickly as possible.”

Ms Casey says the Ministry has also been contacting early childhood education providers, but so far has only been informed of minor issues and none have reported that they have been unable to open.

“The Ministry has also had its own office buildings in the Wellington CBD checked and they have reopened today for staff and we are completing checks at a couple of our other sites before staff return.”

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