New Zealand’s Earthquake Commission (EQC) is continuing to oversee the clean-up of properties in Edgecumbe after flooding caused by the fading Cyclone Debbie.

“Our response to the Edgecumbe flood required a different approach than the EQC would typically take following such an event,” spokesman Paul Walsh said.

“The EQC is managing the clean-up with five contracting companies, so therefore no payment is required for the majority of Edgecumbe customers.”

Settlement of most claims has involved clearing silt and debris from around properties inundated when heavy rainfall caused the Rangitaiki River to breach a levee.

A small number of properties were significantly damaged, including homes that have been “red-stickered” as dangerous. Engineering assessments are being carried out.

“EQC has received 271 claims for Edgecumbe and work has been completed on 175 of these to date,” Mr Walsh said.

Debbie brought a “tropical torrent” to New Zealand in April, with the EQC receiving more than 1000 claims following the deluge.