Summarised by Centrist
Nelson city council’s new hazard maps showed some areas marked for flooding, water damage, earthquake risks, and landslides, but as one resident noted: “It has essentially rendered our property uninsurable.”
Homeowners and developers are understandably anxious.
The resident continued: “This has been incredibly distressing for us as we look to protect our most valuable asset, our home.”
The resident further pointed out that despite living on New Zealand’s largest urban landslide, her house has been stable for years, but the council’s map doesn’t consider her property’s individual risk.
The proposed hazard maps have taken a blanket approach, treating all properties in certain areas like they’re the same.
Developer Simon Dobson said properties he worked on were suddenly uninsurable because of these overlays, which don’t necessarily reflect the reality on the ground.
Former Nelson mayor Rachel Reese believes the maps have had a “chilling effect” on the local property market. Buyers are backing off, as they are advised that insurance may not be an option, and the Nelson market is feeling the pinch.
The council, however, insists the reports behind these maps are solid and stand by their decision, although they admit changes might be needed.
