Christchurch City Council has issued “Dangerous Building and Restricted Access” notices for homes affected by the gas explosion last week.
The gas explosion, which occurred in the suburb of Northwood, injured six people and caused widespread damage to properties in the surrounding neighbourhood.
According to the NZ Herald, the Dangerous Building notices prevent the use or occupation of the properties, while the Restricted Access notices allow only insurers, structural engineers, builders or tradespeople, and specialists in the affected properties for investigation.
Lane Todd, the Canterbury Metro Area commander superintendent, told NZ Herald that WorkSafe is now acting as the lead agency investigating the blast.
Meanwhile, two victims of the gas explosion, Indraj Fonseka and his wife Amita, have told RNZ News they just want to move on from the incident. The couple have already asked their insurance for a settlement.
“I have actually spoken to my insurance company and told them I would rather go for a settlement so that I can move on,” Fonseka told RNZ News. "[However], they said that I did not have that option."
Other evacuated residents said that they are staying with friends and relatives until they can find a suitable rental property as they are not sure if they will be allowed back home.
