Lectures resumed at the University of Canterbury on Monday, two weeks after being closed because of the earthquake.
Staff, students and the university administration have agreed that some lectures should be reorganised, exam timetables compressed and a study break shortened to reduce the impact of the quake.
One of the main problems is the closure of the main library for the rest of the year, but vice-chancellor, Rod Carr, says steps have been taken to make sure students do not miss out.
Twelve academic publishers have granted special free access to e-publications so students can still get information electronically and by inter-loan.
