Lessons for New Zealand lifelines organisations from the 17 January 1995 Great Hanshin earthquake

Abstract

This report outlines the observations and findings with regard to lifelines and other infrastructural items from each of the various New Zealand post-earthquake visits to Kobe subsequent to the NZNSEE reconnaissance team visit. The preliminary assessments on lifelines aspects made in the NZNSEE reconnaissance team report are developed further. Lessons and recommendations for New Zealand are presented. In addition to lifelines aspects, observations are also made on the political decision-making process, subsequent economic trends and temporary housing and emergency management issues.