The Labour Party is ramping up its opposition to the Government's education plans by dedicating a new role to tackle closures and mergers of schools in Christchurch.

Many Christchurch residents displaced by the earthquakes remain too scared to go about their daily activities, a University of Canterbury researcher says.

John Key says people need to be held to account for the collapse of the CTV building, as an investigation into the man who supervised its construction begins.

Scientists warn that quake-rattled Christchurch faces a 72 per cent probability of being hit by an earthquake measuring between 5 and 5.4 magnitude in the next year.

A quarter of the country registered for a national earthquake drill today, but despite the popularity of the exercise there are no plans to make it an annual event.

The drop, cover and hold message was practised around the country today at 9.26am today, but in Christchurch some laughed at the need to take part in an earthquake drill.

Miners were emotional after a meeting with the Minister of State Owned Enterprises, saying he had made up his mind over their proposal before the meeting began.

Environment Canterbury is advising dust-sensitive Christchurch residents to wear dust masks as demolitions pick up in the city.

NZ Shakeout 2012 is Wednesday 26th. We should all know what to do in an earthquake, and that's 'drop, cover, hold.' Watch this video as Peter Elliott explains what to do when an earthquake happens. Video courtesy NZGetThru.

The convicted fraudster who oversaw the construction of the CTV building and who's been accused of faking his engineering degree could be investigated by the Australian police.

The Christchurch rebuild promises to create a city that's better for everyone. So what's got some CBD landowners so outraged? Chris Barton investigates.

It is hoped a newly-announced review of the Earthquake Commission will draw on the lessons learned following the Canterbury Earthquakes.

On February 22, 2011 the heart of Christchurch was shattered and a country was thrown into shock.

When the Christchurch quake struck, Celia Hay thought she was covered. What she has since discovered is a warning to all business owners, reports Diana Clement.

Abandoned quake-damaged neighbourhoods in Christchurch are proving rich pickings for criminals, with burglars risking entry to unstable buildings.

The royal commission of inquiry hearings into the Canterbury earthquakes disaster closed today with the chairman giving a final acknowledgment to bereaved families.

Canterbury Earthquake Recovery Minister Gerry Brownlee has backed down from comments he made about frustrated residents in damaged Christchurch homes and apologised.