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© Debbie RoomeImage of Earthquake Damage to the Basilica in Christchurch 2011
Just after 7am on Saturday 30th April 2011, Christchurch was shaken by a 5.2 aftershock. This was centered 65 kilometers from the city center.

Christchurch continues to experience aftershocks as the national state of emergency in New Zealand draws to a close. As from May, the Christchurch Earthquake Recovery Authority (CERA) will take over the planning and recovery process in the city.
Another Large Aftershock Felt in Christchurch

At 7:08am on Saturday 30th April, Geonet recorded a 5.2 aftershock in the Christchurch region. It released 879 tons of energy and was rated as 6 on the Mercalli scale. This rating describes potential effects as follows: "Felt by everyone. Difficult to stand. Some heavy furniture moved, some plaster falls. Chimneys may be slightly damaged." The motion was somewhat subdued in Christchurch due to the distance but was still obvious as a significant aftershock. Facebook comments within minutes indicated the large area affected and included the following: "Really felt it here in Oxford! Almost felt like September again just shorter. Threw me out of bed! Woke me up in Kaiapoi but I wasn't quite sure if we were having one. Everyone else still asleep. Too tired after staying up late last night to watch the wedding. Felt that in Redwood, so much for a sleep in. Felt that in Belfast - also heard from dad in Rakaia who said his house shook really badly. Felt it in Ashburton. Woke me up with a sudden jolt."

Christchurch experienced five aftershocks in the 24 hours preceding the 5.2 shake. These ranged from a 2.8 to a 3.8.

Civil Defence Admits Weaknesses in Handling Earthquake Aftermath

Page 4 of The Press on Saturday 30th April 2011 carried an article about John Hamilton, the Civil Defence Controller in New Zealand. Throughout his handling of the post-quake efforts in Christchurch, he has been criticized as having taken a dictatorial approach. He admits that certain parts of the quake response were lacking and listed the distribution of portaloos and the process of allowing business owners and residents into the red zone of the city as two weaknesses. Many business people were frustrated by the lack of access to their premises as vital documents and equipment were needed so they could set up in new accommodation. CERA takes over the recovery process as from the 1st May and many Christchurch residents are sceptical. There are fears that the opinion of the people will not be heard and the city will be redesigned without public input. Authorities have assured residents that they will be an integral part of the rebuild process that is expected to take at least a decade.