Canterbury Earthquake - update from the High Commission

A magnitude 6.3 earthquake occured 10km south-east of Christchurch at 12.51pm on 22 February.

Christchurch City has been declared a state of emergency and Christchurch International Airport is open for emergency flights only.

The latest information can be found on the Ministry of Civil Defence website: www.civildefence.govt.nz and the Environment Canterbury website: www.canterburyearthquake.org.nz

The Ministry of Civil Defence are asking that in order to minimise loading on the telecommunications network, people use text messaging and email to check if family and friends are safe.

New Zealanders in Canada who are worried about family and friends should continue to monitor the Civil Defence and Environment Canterbury websites, media reports and try to make direct contact.

A Red Cross Person Enquiry Line has established for those with outside of New Zealand with genuine concerns about relatives and family in Christchurch. The number is: 011 64 7 850 2199

Canadian nationals concerned for Canadian family and friends in New Zealand should contact the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade (DFAIT)
Website: www.voyage.gc.ca/contact
Email: sos@international.gc.ca
Phone: 1 800 267-6788

Those planning on travelling to Christchurch should contact their airline or travel agent before commencing travel. Air New Zealand has information for travellers on their websitewww.airnewzealand.ca

All other South Island and New Zealand airports are open and operating. International travelers planning to visit New Zealand are advised that all regions outside of the Canterbury area remain operational. Tourism New Zealand's website has further information for visitors to New Zealand.

For the New Zealand Government's reponse to the earthquake visit www.beehive.govt.nz

New Zealand media sites www.stuff.co.nz and www.nzherald.co.nz also have up-to-date reports on the situation.