Denis O’Rourke MP
Christchurch Earthquake Issues spokesperson
15 February 2013

Full Compensation Pledged For Christchurch Landowners

All Christchurch uninsured red-zoned land owners who accept the current Government’s 50 per cent compensation offer will get the other half should New Zealand First become part of the next coalition Government.

Ensuring these landowners are treated fairly and receive the full rateable value of the land will be a bottom line in any coalition negotiations.

Christchurch Earthquake Issues spokesperson Denis O’Rourke says these land owners have no choice but to sell to the Government which in the circumstances amounts to compulsory purchase.

“In New Zealand when the Government compulsorily acquires private land it pays the full value of it. The 50 per cent offer is a departure from normal practice and is an affront to fair treatment.

“It has no rational basis when the land damage is minimal, bare land is uninsurable, and when full value is offered for the land component of insured red zoned homes.”

Mr O’Rourke said it is now clear that Earthquake Recovery Minister Gerry Brownlee has chosen an arbitrary figure of 50 per cent without any robust way of calculating the appropriateness of it in particular cases, and without the support of official advice or guidance.

“It is for these reasons New Zealand First will ensure these landowners are properly compensated should the party be part of the next coalition Government.”

ENDS

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