The Canterbury Earthquake Insurance Tribunal is expected to be up and running this month after the enacting egislation passed a final vote in New Zealand’s Parliament last week.

The tribunal aims to help victims of the 2011 Christchurch quakes who have outstanding insurance claims by providing a “fair, speedy, flexible and cost-effective" way to resolve their cases. The law allows for binding resolutions to settle claims.

Referral to an independent, funded mediation service will be one option available for resolving claims without the need for formal hearings.