Earthquake-prone building system overhaul

The story so far

The changes are expected to remove about 2,900 buildings, or 55% of the current regime, from the list, with the aim of saving more than $8 billion in repair and demolition costs.^{29 Sep 2025} Commentary the next day said the changes may save significant costs and prevent some demolitions, with some building owners seeing the updates as practical.^{30 Sep 2025} Experts said safety must remain a priority during the transition.^{30 Sep 2025}

Latest

Rotorua Mayor Tania Tapsell says the proposed earthquake law reforms could enable the Blue Baths to reopen.^{27 Oct 2025}

Key moments

1. 29 Sep 2025Luxon and Penk unveil new earthquake-prone building classification system.
2. 29 Sep 2025About 2,900 buildings, 55% of the regime, expected to be removed.
3. 30 Sep 2025Experts say safety must stay a priority during the transition.
4. 27 Oct 2025Mayor says reforms may allow closed Blue Baths in Rotorua to reopen.

Written from the stories below; each sentence links to its sources.