Joy of a New Home for Earthquake-Affected Kiwi Families

HFH New Zealand also targets to repair 50 houses damaged by Christchurch earthquake

The Hyett family (top) and the Pollard family (center) at house dedications. Habitat volunteers (bottom) from Canada and the U.S. helped to build the houses.

CHRISTCHURCH, 29 November 2012: Two families affected by the February 2011 earthquake in Christchurch can look forward to spending Christmas in their very own homes.

The first two houses to be completed under Habitat for Humanity New Zealand’s rebuilding project were dedicated in late September.

Construction on the houses in Kaiapoi, north of Christchurch, began in May with the help of more than 20 Habitat volunteers from Canada and the United States.

Richard and Miriam Hyett and their three teenaged sons had to live in a houseboat at a local beach after several post-earthquake moves. In an article published on a New Zealand news website, Richard Hyett said: “The chance to get back into a house is a great feeling. When people come together, good things come from it. You hear about so much pain and suffering, so it’s great to have a happy ending.”

The Pollard family, Hamish and Angela and their six children, had been living in a tent at a camping ground after losing their rented home.

Nearly 20 months after the February 2011 earthquake in Christchurch, Habitat for Humanity New Zealand has reaffirmed its commitment to help for as long as possible. Habitat responded quickly after the disaster, working with the local government, other non-governmental organizations and local churches to help affected families.

HFH New Zealand has repaired more than 30 damaged homes with the help of international volunteers from as far as Germany and The Netherlands and local volunteers.

Check out more updates on HFH New Zealand’s Facebook page.