SEMINAR: Exploring elements of an effective disaster recovery process: Lessons from recent New Zealand events

Effective recovery from disasters depends not just on the physical impacts of the event but also on how the societal environment supports the complex and protracted processes of recovery. Research highlights the importance of not only strong local government capacity, but also of a cohesive system of public, private and volunteer groups integrated into the community. Our research explores a range of issues in the context of recent recovery efforts in New Zealand. The research has highlighted that effective recovery planning must consider in advance issues around 1) psychosocial support and community involvement in the recovery process 2) the needs of vulnerable populations and 3) policy and economic issues. The 4 September 2010 and 22 February 2011 Canterbury earthquakes provide a rare opportunity to improve and enhance existing knowledge of the recovery process.