This paper discusses the local wisdom-based recovery model used in Bantul district, Indonesia following the 2006 earthquake. The model focused on respecting local culture and allowing local people to decide how to rebuild their houses, with the local government providing assistance for earthquake-resistant housing and basic needs. An exploratory case study found the recovery efforts were satisfactory and resulted in Bantul becoming a well-planned area with targeted development, demonstrating this model could be effective for other local governments in developing countries.