Gerry Brownlee

Almost 200 more properties in Christchurch have been classified red-zoned, meaning they are not fit for habitation.

Earthquake Recovery Minister Gerry Brownlee has told the Christchurch City Council to "get its own house in order" as it seeks a halt to demolition of Christchurch Cathedral.

The Anglican Church has stopped short of heeding Canterbury Earthquake Recovery Minister Gerry Brownlee's call to release all advice and documentation regarding its decision to demolish Christchurch Cathedral.

His appeal comes after the minister announced the Canterbury Earthquake Recovery Authority will release all documents in regard to the cathedral from 9am today.

Government minister Gerry Brownlee has apologised for disparaging remarks about Finland, when he described Finns as uneducated, unemployed murderers who don't respect women.

Canterbury Earthquake Recovery Minister Gerry Brownlee said the Department of Building and Housing's report into the collapse of the CTV building would have implications for structures of the same age throughout New Zealand.

Canterbury Earthquake Recovery Minister Gerry Brownlee has apologised for an astounding shot at Christchurch mayor Bob Parker, after calling him a "clown".

Residents forced to sell and leave earthquake-wrecked red zones in Christchurch cannot expect to be told when their former homes will be demolished, the Government says.

The record low 2011 road toll of 284 was encouraging but Transport Minister Gerry Brownlee and Police Minister Anne Tolley urged road users to remain vigilant.

Reports that a third of Kaiapoi could be abandoned because of quake damage are being dismissed as "pure speculation" by Earthquake Recovery Minister Gerry Brownlee.

Cabinet Minister Gerry Brownlee found himself in a tight spot this morning but it wasn't over his handling of earthquake recovery efforts; he was trapped in a crowded lift for 30 minutes.