New Zealand Friends are Recovering after Earthquake

After a February earthquake near Christchurch, New Zealand, not the first in recent months, the first stage of rescue and recovery is nearly complete and attention is turning to the major work of demolition and rebuilding. One of the early tasks is working on constructing temporary housing. People who have lost their homes are hoping to be warm and dry in the approaching winter. It is a huge task that faces the people of Christchurch, and all New Zealanders need support.

People in the Quaker community have been seriously affected too; there were no deaths. Christchurch Friends are hoping that the reconstruction of their meetinghouse and cottage will be achieved through a combination of the Earthquake Commission and insurance coverage. A number of Friends will be facing serious financial burdens as a result of their homes and/or livelihoods being destroyed or badly damaged. For further information, visit the New Zealand Yearly Meeting website.