Innovations in the design of structures to resist earthquakes in New Zealand over recent years are discussed. These include the ductile design approach incorporating capacity design, and the detailing of reinforcement to ensure ductile behaviour, design using seismic isolation and mechanical energy dissipating devices, the use of precast concrete in buildings, and the assessment and upgrading of the earthquake resistance of existing older structures.
R. Park, OBE, ME, PhD, Hon DEng, FREng, FIStructE, FICE, FRSNZ, FIPENZ Emeritus Professor of Civil Engineering University of Canterbury, New Zealand