Education Minister Hekia Parata has come under fire today for creating more struggle for quake affected families bearing the brunt of proposed changes to Christchurch schools.

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.

Emergency meetings have been held by schools groups trying to get to the bottom of yesterday's confused reveal of a shake-up of Christchurch's schools system.

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

The Government is set to close 13 Canterbury schools and merge another 18 in an overhaul of the education sector in the area that was revealed today.

New Zealand's top construction companies are at breaking point over a rising tide of red tape, an inquiry heard today.

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