New Zealand’s Earthquake Commission has recognised 10 events for insurance purposes from the time of the first major earthquake on September 4, 2010.

The state-owned residential insurer has paid out $NZ859 million ($641 million) so far and reports from London say it can expect an increase of up to 130% on its reinsurance treaties.

The commission has not commented on the figure, which was reported in UK newsletter Insurance Insider.

CEO Ian Simpson says the commission has received more than 319,000 claims for all events from September 4. Much of the Christchurch city centre remains cordoned off, with many buildings likely to be demolished.

He says assessments in the city centre will begin within the next fortnight.