QBE has become the ninth insurer to partner with Toka Tū Ake EQC since the partnership initiative was launched in mid 2021.  

More than 14,300 EQCover claims have been lodged with private insurers so far to manage the entire claim process on behalf Toka Tū Ake EQC.  The partnership model, which represents more than 95% of insured New Zealand homeowners, includes AA Insurance, Chubb, FMG, Ando (Hollard), IAG, MAS, Vero, Tower and, from July 3, QBE. 

The partnership model builds resilience and supports communities to respond and recover from natural disasters, QBE New Zealand and Pacific CEO and MD Declan Moore says. 

“We are looking forward to delivering a simpler claims process for our broker partners and customers,” Mr Moore said.  

“The Natural Disaster Response Model is a customer-focused solution that reduces complexity at a stressful time and ensures claims are processed fairly and as efficiently as possible.”  

Under the model, homeowners lodge a single claim through their private insurer if they experience damage to their homes after a natural disaster. The insurer assesses, manages, and settles the entire claim, both for EQCover and any additional losses. 

It was put in place after the Canterbury earthquakes around a decade ago where homeowners had to go through dual insurance processes.  

“This was a significant change ... a huge advantage for customers,” EQC CEO Tina Mitchell said. “Our new partner, QBE, is a further sign of industry support.”