The government expect the move will save building owners $8.2 billion. File photo. Photo: 123rf
The government's changes to earthquake strengthening laws have passed their first reading.
The legislation takes a new 'risk-based' approach which removes strengthening requirements from Auckland, Northland and the Chatham Islands.
The system will move away from earthquake ratings, instead focusing on specific building features that pose a risk.
Buildings under three storeys and in towns with under 10,000 people would not need strengthening, remediation or warning notices.
Coastal Otago and part of Stewart Island will move from 'low-risk' to 'medium risk' based on updated hazard assessments.
The government expects this to save building owners $8.2 billion, by removing about 2900 buildings from the register and making remediation cheaper or unneeded for more than 2300.
The opposition said Auckland was still a seismic risk from volcanic eruptions.
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