Five new training units on Natural Hazards Cover (NHCover) are now available for free from Engineering New Zealand’s learning portal. These units are designed to help geotechnical and structural engineers align with the recent Natural Hazards Insurance Act 2023 when assessing and reporting damage to residential land and buildings after a natural hazard event.

The new units on NHCover are relevant for claims for damage from a natural hazard event that first occurred on or after 1 July 2024. Engineers working with claims lodged for events that happened before 1 July 2024 can still access the previous EQCover training under the Earthquake Commission Act 1993.

The updated training provides a comprehensive overview of key assessment areas. Modules include an introduction to the Natural Hazards Commission Toka Tū Ake and NHCover, as well as refreshed guidance on understanding and making geotechnical assessments of residential land and writing geotechnical reports. There is also a new module on assessing natural hazard damage to residential buildings.

These units have been created by the Natural Hazards Commission Toka Tū Ake and are hosted on Engineering New Zealand’s learning portal to ensure that engineers are well-prepared to support affected communities by delivering accurate and timely assessments. Providing these assessments following a natural hazard event is a vital step towards recovery for New Zealand communities impacted by natural hazards.

This learning counts towards your CPD hours and is part of the Natural Hazards Commission Toka Tū Ake and Engineering New Zealand’s ongoing investment in the professional development of the geotechnical and structural engineering community. Access these resources now to stay equipped for future recovery efforts.