Wall Pc

Stone doesn't survive earthquakes... Wood is pretty much the only material suitable for NZ homes.

Not trying to make this a contest. Just pointing out that local conditions, hazards, and available materials are more important then some ideal building pattern.

One of the worst mistakes made in respect to housing in NZ was an attempt to harmonise with other countries building codes. Turns out adopting standards built for a desert don't work in a humid country with an average rainfall of very high. You can read about it under 'leaky homes nz'.

 

NZ is a good example.

 

It does, but buildings must be constructed in specific way which involves shock absorbers in the basement/foundation.

http://www.realestate-tokyo.com/news/earthquake-resistance-of-buildings-in-japan/

 

@AlanMattano
That image, though! Awesome!