Residents still living in Christchurch's red zone have just three days left to leave their homes.

Those who want to stay have to apply to the Government for an extension, and if granted could be forced to pay a penalty fee to the Canterbury Earthquake Recovery Authority.

Laurie Osborne has lived in the area with his wife, Patricia, for 54 years. He says it is virtually like "camping but with a roof over [their] heads".

They have been told to take their piled-up belongings and be out by Friday.

Mr and Mrs Osborne have running water and electricity but no sewerage. Instead they've paid $11,000 for a portaloo at the end of the driveway.

Mrs Osbourne says "it's clean, tidy and convenient and better than a hole in the ground".

They are waiting for a new house to be built in Amberley, which has already delayed by three months, so they've applied to CERA for an extension. But will they get it?

"What's another 10 weeks when you have had 1150 days?"

Nearby, Iddo and Vrouwkje Bongers received a red-zone extension until the end of May. Any longer and they will have to pay a penalty fee.

The Government has already provided extensions to red zoners but their patience is running out.Mr and Mrs Osborne are waiting for one last reprieve or will be forced out.

Read the rest here:

Red zoners apply to Govt for extension