The EQC is now dealing with nearly 600, 000 separate claims for land, building or contents.

BBC: Christchurch businesses still hit a year after quake

New Zealand's Earthquake Commission (EQC) is the government agency providing natural disaster insurance for homeowners.

BBC: Christchurch businesses still hit a year after quake

The EQC pays the first 100, 000 New Zealand dollars of repairs and private insurers pay anything over this amount.

BBC: Christchurch businesses still hit a year after quake

But the government recently revealed it had underestimated the EQC's liability.

BBC: Christchurch businesses still hit a year after quake