Fire chiefs failed to cope with the February 22 earthquake response, according to a scathing report out today which criticised them for being disorganised.

The Canterbury earthquakes were a chance for many to break out of their mundane existences, a researcher has found.

A magnitude 5.5 earthquake struck near Taupo this afternoon and was felt along the East Coast of the North Island.

Aftershocks are unlikely after a 5.2 magnitude earthquake rocked much of the central and lower North Island today.

The post-earthquake exodus from Christchurch has bottomed out, according to latest figures which show just 2800 people leaving the wider city area in the last year.

Emergency services responded rapidly and worked well together during the February 22 earthquake in Christchurch last year, an independent review has concluded.

Quake-stressed Christchurch school children are being given free scenic flights above their decimated neighbourhoods to help take their minds off everyday worries.

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 pair of massive earthquakes which struck off the coast in Sumatra in April may have triggered quakes around the globe, according to new research.

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.

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.

Two large North Island earthquakes reported by GeoNet this morning didn't actually happen - leaving the agency apologising for any alarm caused.

Free Auckland Civil Defence application now available to smartphone users.

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.