WELLINGTON, May 31 (Xinhua) -- Earthquake-prone New Zealand on Wednesday released new geotechnical modules on methods of improving ground conditions and retaining wall design, according to Building and Construction Minister Nick Smith.
Also released was a new field guide to help geotechnical professionals "assess and categorize land instability after an earthquake," Smith said in a release, adding that this is the first time there has been comprehensive guidance for geotechnical practice in New Zealand.
The modules and field guide, issued by the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE), are the latest in a series of geotechnical tools in response to recommendations made by the Canterbury Earthquakes Royal Commission. At least three major quakes struck the Canterbury region over the past seven years.
The geotechnical guidance will ensure better building performance and response to earthquakes, Smith said.
"The geotechnical component of the rapid building assessment process following an event is important for the safety of the public," he said, adding that it provides engineers assessing the ground after a significant event with an agreed process to follow to ensure everyone's safety.
"Understanding ground behavior is critical to building performance. This is why MBIE has been working with the New Zealand Geotechnical Society to develop ongoing geotechnical engineering guidance," he said.
The Christchurch experience has made New Zealand "a world leader in the geotechnical field," Smith said, adding that New Zealand "works closely with international experts to ensure we raise the bar for building performance here and internationally".
To support the release of the modules, an education program with online resources has been launched to assist geotechnical practitioners, he said.
