6.3 quake reported in Christchurch?
Feb 23rd 2011, 11:28 pm
#167
BE Forum Addict
Joined: Nov 2007
Location: homeless
Posts: 1,756
Re: 6.3 quake reported in Christchurch?
so you never know..
the rescue team,, please dont' give up..
Last edited by crap coffee; Feb 23rd 2011 at 11:33 pm.
Feb 24th 2011, 1:07 am
#168
Truth is the safest lie.
Joined: Jul 2008
Location: @ the beach.
Posts: 7,241
Re: 6.3 quake reported in Christchurch?
It’ll be interesting to see what the Engineers reports says about the failure of those newer multi-storey buildings that collapsed.
Also can the army/police implement a policy of “looters may be shot on sight”? I can’t believe people are stealing backup generators and going through other people’s homes at a time like this
.
Also can the army/police implement a policy of “looters may be shot on sight”? I can’t believe people are stealing backup generators and going through other people’s homes at a time like this
.
Feb 24th 2011, 3:21 am
#169
Joined: Aug 2006
Posts: 7,208
Re: 6.3 quake reported in Christchurch?
It’ll be interesting to see what the Engineers reports says about the failure of those newer multi-storey buildings that collapsed.
Also can the army/police implement a policy of “looters may be shot on sight”? I can’t believe people are stealing backup generators and going through other people’s homes at a time like this.
Also can the army/police implement a policy of “looters may be shot on sight”? I can’t believe people are stealing backup generators and going through other people’s homes at a time like this
.The two children aged 18 and 15 holding a vigil in the park for their mum had their family home burgled after they were shown on the tv.
Feb 24th 2011, 3:43 am
#170
BE Forum Addict
Joined: Oct 2006
Posts: 1,820
Re: 6.3 quake reported in Christchurch?
Feb 24th 2011, 4:45 am
#171
Forum Regular
Joined: Jul 2009
Posts: 72
Re: 6.3 quake reported in Christchurch?
They have a page on their web site dedicated to the earthquake and contact details for people wanting to try and trace family / friends.
http://www.kingseducation.co.nz/announce_.php
They also have a list of all the staff and students that were in the building at the time and are updating information on that site about their status.
I have to take my hat off to Kings Education it seems to be a very useful site would be great if other employers (although maybe they are keeping families updated) could follow this example even if it does make sad reading.
Last edited by VickyMel; Feb 24th 2011 at 4:50 am.
Feb 24th 2011, 9:40 am
#172
`
Joined: Oct 2003
Posts: 38,612
Re: 6.3 quake reported in Christchurch?
Whilst I so understand the sentiment, I'd rather we keep our threads for those in need of help and support right now.
If we need a dedicated scumbag thread ,I am happy to open that for the say so.
I will call it --- wait for it ---- it's subtle -- scumbags !
If we need a dedicated scumbag thread ,I am happy to open that for the say so.
I will call it --- wait for it ---- it's subtle -- scumbags !
Feb 24th 2011, 10:21 am
#173
`
Joined: Oct 2003
Posts: 38,612
Re: 6.3 quake reported in Christchurch?
Civil Defence
#CHCH #EQNZ Quake Update 42
2309 hrs Thursday 24 February 2011
A magnitude 6.3 earthquake occurred 10km south-east of Christchurch at 12:51, February 22, 2011. Depth (focal depth): 5km. The National Crisis Management Centre has been activated and a National State of Emergency has been declared (www.beehive.govt.nz).
The Christchurch CBD and Lyttelton have suffered considerable damage with a number of collapsed or seriously damaged buildings. Aftershocks could lead to further building damage or collapse. There is a cordon around the four avenues of the CBD. Damage assessment is ongoing.
Power, telecommunications and essential services continue to be disrupted. Restoration work is progressively providing increased utility services. Extensive liquefaction throughout the impacted area has caused additional management and restoration issues.
A large number of people have been pulled alive from collapsed buildings.
Priorities for the response remain the support of the urban search and rescue operation, the treatment and care of injured or affected individuals, and the coordination of national resources in support of the local response.
National resources continue to be deployed in support of the local response.
Today, as at 1700, approximately 1146 persons have been moved out of Christchurch to Wellington or Auckland by the established air bridge.
Damage assessment is ongoing and over time will provide a better understanding of the extent of damage.
For queries about missing persons please call 0800 733 276 (0800 RED CROSS)
People enquiring about missing persons from outside New Zealand should call the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade: +64 7 850 2199
Aftershocks
As at 1954 hrs, 24 February, there were at least 37 aftershocks greater than magnitude 4 and four aftershocks above magnitude 5. GNS Science advises that there may be more magnitude 5 or greater aftershocks in the next few days. Aftershocks are expected to continue and this could lead to further building damage or collapse, as well as continued disruption to power, telecommunications and essential services.
For local Christchurch information (including welfare centres, water, schools / tertiary) see: http://canterburyearthquake.org.nz/
People in the affected area should:
HELP LINES:
Government help line
Call the Ministry of Social Development's Government help line 0800 779 997 for information about all government services and support.
Police website experiencing heavy loading
The NZ Police website (www.police.govt.nz) is currently under heavy load and unavailable to some users. Police staff and our web hosts are working to resolve the issue as quickly as possible, but do not yet have a firm time for the site to be live to all users. Other communication channels (such as email) will be used to provide media with updates regarding the Christchurch earthquake.
Donations - please give cash not goods
People wanting to contribute to the response are encouraged to contribute financially ONLY. (No donations of goods or services at this time please). Cash donations to:
Blood donations
NZ Blood has announced that the Christchurch Blood Donor Centre will be closed until further notice. They have good supplies of blood in Christchurch and have supplies they can bring in from other centres. At this stage blood stock are fine, but if the situation changes they will inform people via their website (www.nzblood.co.nz) or via Facebook.
Red Cross Person Enquiry Line activated
People in New Zealand concerned about the wellbeing of friends and relatives in Christchurch should call 0800 REDCROSS (0800 733 276).
If you are unable to contact a friend or relative in the Christchurch area, call the Red Cross Person Enquiry Line. Red Cross will be able to tell you if they have registered with Civil Defence. People are encouraged to do this before reporting friends and relatives missing.
Missing persons from outside New Zealand
People enquiring about missing persons from outside New Zealand should call the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade: +64 7 850 2199
You can also email the Red Cross: [email protected]
LATEST NEWS:
Hospitals and Medical CentresMedical resources are being deployed and activated to manage the number of injured.
Christchurch hospital is operational (contrary to some media reports) and one ward has been evacuated. If you need an ambulance dial 111. Only attend A and E (accident and emergency) at the hospital if absolutely essential.
Hospitals in other areas are prepared to receive patients if required.
For other injuries, contact your nearest after hours medical centre/General Practice or nearest after hours surgery. Canterbury residents with urgent medical needs can visit a GP free of charge until Sunday.If you are unwell, call for help: HealthLine 0800 611 116 (minor injury or illness).
The 24 hour surgery on Bealy Avenue is open. Emergency triage centres for the injured are operating at Latimer Square.
The District Health Boards are communicating to coordinate support requirements.
Evacuations in Sumner
Selected properties on the following streets are being evacuated because of concerns about possible landslips..
People need to take the following advice to avoid getting sick with stomach bugs and other illnesses:
There were about 188 incidents attended by New Zealand Fire Service (NZFS) personnel from midnight to 2:30pm today (excluding USAR). The NZFS USAR teams are being assisted by USAR teams from New South Wales, Queensland, Singapore, Taiwan, and Japan. Teams from the UK and USA are expected within the next 24 hours.
The focus for USAR teams is rescuing people, with operations currently targeted in the CBD, Lyttleton and Sumner. The Christchurch Fire Operations Command is based in the grounds of the Transalpine Region offices.
NZFS executive officers, administrators, as well as welfare, logistics, and IT personnel from around the country have been deployed to Christchurch. An Earthquake Support Group is operating out of national headquarters with a liaison and at the National Crisis Management Centre in Wellington.
Police cordon
Christchurch police are imposing tight restrictions in central Christchurch from 6.30pm this evening for public safety reasons amidst fears of further building collapses.
District Commander Superintendent Dave Cliff says the area within the four avenues (Deans, Moorhouse, Fitzgerald and Bealey) will be off-limits. Police say all members of the public, including the media must be out of the cordoned area by 6.30pm, or they risk arrest. More information see: http://www.police.govt.nz/christchurch-earthquake
Urban Search and Rescue
The focus of rescue activities is ten priority buildings where people are trapped. USAR main sites are Pyne Gould Corporation (PGC) building and Christchurch Cathedral, activity at the Canterbury Television building (CTV) has been suspended due to instability of neighbouring building.
Three New Zealand USAR teams and five International USAR teams (NSW, Queensland, Taiwan, Japan and part of Singapore) are involved in the search and rescue operation. Other USAR teams (the rest of the Singapore team, USA and UK) will arrive today. Ten NZ Response Teams are on the ground and deployed to assist in building checks. Total USAR personnel deployed 496 people plus 57 UK staff arriving today.
International assistance
Offers of international assistance have been accepted from Australia, United States, United Kingdom, Japan, Taiwan and Singapore. Offers have also been made by Argentina, Canada, Chile, France, Germany, Greece, Korea, Malaysia, Mexico, New Caledonia, Russia, Switzerland and the United Nations.
The United National Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (UNOCHA) has offered assistance and International Search and Research Advisory Group (INSARAG) teams have been mobilised. An offer of assistance has also been received from the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP).
Child Youth and Family clients
All Child Youth and Family clients can call 0508 FAMILY (0508 326 459) for assistance with concerns about a child or young person.
Police reinforcements
Police officers including those skilled in disaster victim identification roles are travelling to Christchurch as part of the emergency response.
About 200 staff have been mobilised as part of the immediate response with another 130 expected to travel in the next few days to support their Canterbury colleagues and other agencies.
A large number of Australian police staff are being mobilised to assist in the Christchurch earthquake rescue operation.
Police are urging people to stay out of the Christchurch central city business area. Emergency services and disaster response agencies are continuing all possible efforts to search buildings in the CBD and other parts of the city.
Movement of visitors out of city
Civil Defence is giving visitors to Christchurch the opportunity to relocate to Wellington. Visitors who want to leave the city should make their way to the Burnside High School welfare centre, corner of memorial Avenue and Greers Road or the welfare centre in Hagley Park. DO NOT go to the airport.
The decision to relocate visitors has been made in order to free up accommodation in Christchurch and also reunite people with friends and family. This will also assist with accommodation shortages in the city. Flights started leaving Christchurch early this morning.
Visitors are being flown to Wellington by the Royal New Zealand Air Force. Any visitors to Christchurch who want to leave the city should make their way to collection points at the Burnside High School welfare centre, corner of Memorial Avenue and Greers Road or the welfare centre at North Hagley Park. Please note, do not go to the airport directly if you wish to be on these flights. Please go only to the collection points. (See also 'Airport Status' below)
Visa Extensions for Foreign Nationals Affected by Earthquake
Immigration New Zealand is issuing automatic six month visa extensions for any foreign national whose work, visitor or student visa application cannot be processed because of the Christchurch earthquake. Immigration New Zealand's central Christchurch office in the Crystal Plaza building is unable to be accessed for safety reasons. 2000 temporary visa applications are in that office.
For more information contact: Immigration New Zealand
Building / residential evaluations
Christchurch City Council advised that teams of building and health inspectors began assessing residential properties today. Forty teams are visiting the suburbs of Brighton, Dallington, Avonside, Parklands/Queenspark, Saint Martins/Opawa, and Lyttelton.
The Christchurch City Council understands the concerns of residents in rental properties, with regards to earthquake damage to their homes. The City Housing team are currently making their way around every single Christchurch City Council rental property and expect to have visited each property by the end of the weekend. For more information see: http://canterburyearthquake.org.nz/
Four teams will be examining commercial properties. Additional building inspectors and engineers have been requested. Shop owners and employees are not to visit/enter place of work if it has not been properly inspected.
Food safety
MAF (Food Safety) has issued advice to protect people from foodborne illnesses in the wake of Tuesday's earthquake. For information see Food safety in the Christchurch earthquake
Animals
For lost or found dogs please contact Animal Control on 021 240 8310 or visit 10 Metro Place - Open 8:00am to 6:00pm.
Information about animal welfare and lost/found pets is also available on the SPCA New Zealand website: Christchurch Earthquake - Updates, Lost/Found Pets and How You Can Help
Department of Corrections - Contact numbers for Community Probation Services staff and offenders
For staff: Corrections has set up a 0800 line to provide practical staff support and advice It is also available to staff throughout the country who may have family or friends caught up in the quake. The number is 0800 QUAKEINFO (0800 782 534). It will be staffed around the clock until further notice.
For offenders in the community: Corrections has begun making text and phone contact with all offenders in the Christchurch Area to confirm their safety and whereabouts. Offenders we have not reached yet are urged to phone 0800 222 337. This line will also be answered around the clock until further notice.
LIFELINE UTILITIES:
Airport status
Avoid any non-essential travel to or from Christchurch.
The airport has been open for domestic and international flights at revised schedules since 23 February afternoon. 24 February flight schedule expected to be back to normal.
Contact your airline before heading to the airport to reduce congestion.
Christchurch International Airport: 0800 568 369
Port status
Aiming to have limited container operations within three to four days with anticipated previous service levels in approximately 10 days. Other port operations are continuing.
Road status
18 bridges and 25 distributor roads continue to be impassable due to flooding and structural or surface damage (not state highways). Eastern parts of the city are worst affected.
All state highways and state highway bridge structures in and around the city have been inspected, and while some have sustained minor damage all of the bridge structures are safe, and all other state highways in the region are open. Motorists are being urged to abide by temporary speed restrictions in place on many parts of the network.
The NZ Transport Agency (NZTA) is aiming to re-open the Lyttelton tunnel to all traffic by Saturday afternoon. The structure of the severely damaged tunnel canopy was removed earlier today, and the agency has been allowing fuel tankers through the tunnel under escort.
Dyers Pass Rd is open. The Agency is working hard to re-open a section of SH74 (ANZAC Drive from Travis Rd to Metro Pl), but surface flooding and liquefaction are slowing progress. The Chaney’s on-ramp on the Northern Motorway reopened to single lane.
Information on earthquake damage to state highways will be regularly updated on the NZTA website (www.highwayinfo.govt.nz) or is available by phoning 0800 44 44 49. Assessments of bridges and other structures on the state highway network will continue throughout the week, and new information will be provided as it becomes available.
Rail status
North Island link to Christchurch open. West Coast to Christchurch is open. Dunedin line is open with speed restrictions.
Link between Lyttelton and Christchurch remains closed due to bridge damage near Heathcote.
Disrupted passengers are to call KiwiRail for alternative travel arrangements: 0800 808 400
Coach Services
Intercity Coach Services are operational and will depart and arrive on 23 and 24 February from the corner of Colombo StreetandBealey Avenue in Christchurch.
Electricity
Power restored to 60% of the city. Progress to restore is slow due to damage to the network and roading. Assessing the damage will take some days as much of the network is underground.
Telecomms
All networks have heavy congestion. Restrict mobile phone use to text messages ONLY. Only use the phone for emergency calls. Refrain from using data services (e.g. Internet browsing) as this is leading to congestion.
ESSENTIAL CONTACTS:
Earthquake Government Helpline: 0800 779 997
A service for people requiring information on income support, housing options / accommodation, health issues, community assistance, Civil Defence or any other government service.
Missing person enquiry line: 0800 RED CROSS (0800 733 276)
For queries about missing persons. People enquiring from outside New Zealand should call the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade: +64 7 850 2199
Healthline (24 hours): 0800 611 116
The service is staffed by registered nurses who will assess your health needs, and give information and advice to help you decide on the best level of care.
Housing Help: 0800 HELP 00 (0800 435 700)
Housing assistance or offers of accommodation (Christchurch area).
Earthquake Commission (EQC): 0800 DAMAGE (0800 326 243)
For information on EQC’s insurance cover, cleaning up and making a claim.
Christchurch City Council: 03 941 8999 (customer services)
For assessment of major structural damage to your home or business premises or for help with essential council services such as water supply or sewage disposal.
Christchurch International Airport: 0800 568 369
Including information about travel, tourism and accommodation.
Federated Farmers Helpline: 0800 FARMING (0800 327 646)
For information, advice and contacts for Canterbury farmers (weekdays 8.30am - 5pm).
Business Helpline: 0800 42 49 46
Information for business owners.
@NZCivilDefence on Twitter provides an automated feed of content from this site only. Follow @CEQGovtNZ on Twitter for updates, tips and latest news.
2309 hrs Thursday 24 February 2011
A magnitude 6.3 earthquake occurred 10km south-east of Christchurch at 12:51, February 22, 2011. Depth (focal depth): 5km. The National Crisis Management Centre has been activated and a National State of Emergency has been declared (www.beehive.govt.nz).
The Christchurch CBD and Lyttelton have suffered considerable damage with a number of collapsed or seriously damaged buildings. Aftershocks could lead to further building damage or collapse. There is a cordon around the four avenues of the CBD. Damage assessment is ongoing.
Power, telecommunications and essential services continue to be disrupted. Restoration work is progressively providing increased utility services. Extensive liquefaction throughout the impacted area has caused additional management and restoration issues.
A large number of people have been pulled alive from collapsed buildings.
Priorities for the response remain the support of the urban search and rescue operation, the treatment and care of injured or affected individuals, and the coordination of national resources in support of the local response.
National resources continue to be deployed in support of the local response.
Today, as at 1700, approximately 1146 persons have been moved out of Christchurch to Wellington or Auckland by the established air bridge.
Damage assessment is ongoing and over time will provide a better understanding of the extent of damage.
- To minimise loading on the telecommunications network, people should use txt messaging to check if friends and family are safe
- There are reports of widespread building collapse (especially in the central city).
- There are 98 confirmed fatalities. This figure is expected to rise.
- There are 228 people reported missing (unaccounted for)
For queries about missing persons please call 0800 733 276 (0800 RED CROSS)
People enquiring about missing persons from outside New Zealand should call the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade: +64 7 850 2199
Aftershocks
As at 1954 hrs, 24 February, there were at least 37 aftershocks greater than magnitude 4 and four aftershocks above magnitude 5. GNS Science advises that there may be more magnitude 5 or greater aftershocks in the next few days. Aftershocks are expected to continue and this could lead to further building damage or collapse, as well as continued disruption to power, telecommunications and essential services.
For local Christchurch information (including welfare centres, water, schools / tertiary) see: http://canterburyearthquake.org.nz/
People in the affected area should:
- Expect aftershocks. Each time one is felt, drop, cover, and hold on.
- Check yourself first for injuries and get first aid if necessary before helping injured or trapped persons.
- Check on neighbours, friends and family in their local area.
- Assess your home or workplace for damage. If the building appears unsafe get everyone out. Use the stairs, not an elevator and when outside, watch out for fallen power lines or broken gas lines. Stay out of damaged areas.
- Look for and extinguish small fires if it is safe to do so. Fire is a significant hazard following earthquakes.
- Listen to the radio for updated emergency information and instructions.
- Do not overload phone lines with non-emergency calls.
- Do not use any lifts anywhere in Christchurch.
- Do not sight-see in affected areas - this is causing congestion and impacting on response vehicles. Roads are for lifelines and emergency services.
- Help people who require special assistance - infants, elderly people, those without transportation, families who may need additional help, people with disabilities, and the people who care for them.
HELP LINES:
Government help line
Call the Ministry of Social Development's Government help line 0800 779 997 for information about all government services and support.
Police website experiencing heavy loading
The NZ Police website (www.police.govt.nz) is currently under heavy load and unavailable to some users. Police staff and our web hosts are working to resolve the issue as quickly as possible, but do not yet have a firm time for the site to be live to all users. Other communication channels (such as email) will be used to provide media with updates regarding the Christchurch earthquake.
Donations - please give cash not goods
People wanting to contribute to the response are encouraged to contribute financially ONLY. (No donations of goods or services at this time please). Cash donations to:
- Red Cross: http://www.redcross.org.nz/donateOR
- Salvation Army: 0800 53 00 00 (Specify that your donation is for the ‘Canterbury Earthquake Appeal’) OR
- Any ANZ Bankbranch: Account number 01-1839-0188939-00
- Any National Bank branch: Account number 06-0869-0548507-00
- Any Westpac Bank branch: Account number 03-0207-0617331-00
- Any ASB Bank branch: Account number 12-3205-0146808-00
- Any BNZ Bank branch: Account number 02-0500-0982004-000
- Any Kiwibank branch: Account number: 38-9009-0759479-00
- Vodafone customers can donate either $3 or $5 to the cause by TXTing ‘Quake’ to either 333 ($3 donation) or 555 ($5 donation). 100% of all donations will go to the NZ Red Cross 2011 Earthquake Appeal.
Blood donations
NZ Blood has announced that the Christchurch Blood Donor Centre will be closed until further notice. They have good supplies of blood in Christchurch and have supplies they can bring in from other centres. At this stage blood stock are fine, but if the situation changes they will inform people via their website (www.nzblood.co.nz) or via Facebook.
Red Cross Person Enquiry Line activated
People in New Zealand concerned about the wellbeing of friends and relatives in Christchurch should call 0800 REDCROSS (0800 733 276).
If you are unable to contact a friend or relative in the Christchurch area, call the Red Cross Person Enquiry Line. Red Cross will be able to tell you if they have registered with Civil Defence. People are encouraged to do this before reporting friends and relatives missing.
Missing persons from outside New Zealand
People enquiring about missing persons from outside New Zealand should call the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade: +64 7 850 2199
You can also email the Red Cross: [email protected]
LATEST NEWS:
Hospitals and Medical CentresMedical resources are being deployed and activated to manage the number of injured.
Christchurch hospital is operational (contrary to some media reports) and one ward has been evacuated. If you need an ambulance dial 111. Only attend A and E (accident and emergency) at the hospital if absolutely essential.
Hospitals in other areas are prepared to receive patients if required.
For other injuries, contact your nearest after hours medical centre/General Practice or nearest after hours surgery. Canterbury residents with urgent medical needs can visit a GP free of charge until Sunday.If you are unwell, call for help: HealthLine 0800 611 116 (minor injury or illness).
The 24 hour surgery on Bealy Avenue is open. Emergency triage centres for the injured are operating at Latimer Square.
The District Health Boards are communicating to coordinate support requirements.
Evacuations in Sumner
Selected properties on the following streets are being evacuated because of concerns about possible landslips..
- Defender Lane
- Egnot Heights
- Taupata Street
- Raekura Place
- Moncks Spur at intersection of Mt Pleasant
- Cave/Main
- McCormacks Bay/Glenstrae
People need to take the following advice to avoid getting sick with stomach bugs and other illnesses:
- Boil water before drinking, brushing teeth or washing/preparing food. Assume tap water is contaminated and unsafe to drink until advised otherwise by Council. For a full list of water stations see: www.canterburyearthquake.org.nz
- Take your medicines (and copies of prescriptions) with you.
- If you have water, use it sparingly.
- Remember hand washing stops diseases spreading.
- Look after each other - keep in touch with families, friends and neighbours.
- Assume river, sea water, ponds, puddles and any other surface water is contaminated with sewage.
There were about 188 incidents attended by New Zealand Fire Service (NZFS) personnel from midnight to 2:30pm today (excluding USAR). The NZFS USAR teams are being assisted by USAR teams from New South Wales, Queensland, Singapore, Taiwan, and Japan. Teams from the UK and USA are expected within the next 24 hours.
The focus for USAR teams is rescuing people, with operations currently targeted in the CBD, Lyttleton and Sumner. The Christchurch Fire Operations Command is based in the grounds of the Transalpine Region offices.
NZFS executive officers, administrators, as well as welfare, logistics, and IT personnel from around the country have been deployed to Christchurch. An Earthquake Support Group is operating out of national headquarters with a liaison and at the National Crisis Management Centre in Wellington.
Police cordon
Christchurch police are imposing tight restrictions in central Christchurch from 6.30pm this evening for public safety reasons amidst fears of further building collapses.
District Commander Superintendent Dave Cliff says the area within the four avenues (Deans, Moorhouse, Fitzgerald and Bealey) will be off-limits. Police say all members of the public, including the media must be out of the cordoned area by 6.30pm, or they risk arrest. More information see: http://www.police.govt.nz/christchurch-earthquake
Urban Search and Rescue
The focus of rescue activities is ten priority buildings where people are trapped. USAR main sites are Pyne Gould Corporation (PGC) building and Christchurch Cathedral, activity at the Canterbury Television building (CTV) has been suspended due to instability of neighbouring building.
Three New Zealand USAR teams and five International USAR teams (NSW, Queensland, Taiwan, Japan and part of Singapore) are involved in the search and rescue operation. Other USAR teams (the rest of the Singapore team, USA and UK) will arrive today. Ten NZ Response Teams are on the ground and deployed to assist in building checks. Total USAR personnel deployed 496 people plus 57 UK staff arriving today.
International assistance
Offers of international assistance have been accepted from Australia, United States, United Kingdom, Japan, Taiwan and Singapore. Offers have also been made by Argentina, Canada, Chile, France, Germany, Greece, Korea, Malaysia, Mexico, New Caledonia, Russia, Switzerland and the United Nations.
The United National Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (UNOCHA) has offered assistance and International Search and Research Advisory Group (INSARAG) teams have been mobilised. An offer of assistance has also been received from the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP).
Child Youth and Family clients
All Child Youth and Family clients can call 0508 FAMILY (0508 326 459) for assistance with concerns about a child or young person.
Police reinforcements
Police officers including those skilled in disaster victim identification roles are travelling to Christchurch as part of the emergency response.
About 200 staff have been mobilised as part of the immediate response with another 130 expected to travel in the next few days to support their Canterbury colleagues and other agencies.
A large number of Australian police staff are being mobilised to assist in the Christchurch earthquake rescue operation.
Police are urging people to stay out of the Christchurch central city business area. Emergency services and disaster response agencies are continuing all possible efforts to search buildings in the CBD and other parts of the city.
Movement of visitors out of city
Civil Defence is giving visitors to Christchurch the opportunity to relocate to Wellington. Visitors who want to leave the city should make their way to the Burnside High School welfare centre, corner of memorial Avenue and Greers Road or the welfare centre in Hagley Park. DO NOT go to the airport.
The decision to relocate visitors has been made in order to free up accommodation in Christchurch and also reunite people with friends and family. This will also assist with accommodation shortages in the city. Flights started leaving Christchurch early this morning.
Visitors are being flown to Wellington by the Royal New Zealand Air Force. Any visitors to Christchurch who want to leave the city should make their way to collection points at the Burnside High School welfare centre, corner of Memorial Avenue and Greers Road or the welfare centre at North Hagley Park. Please note, do not go to the airport directly if you wish to be on these flights. Please go only to the collection points. (See also 'Airport Status' below)
Visa Extensions for Foreign Nationals Affected by Earthquake
Immigration New Zealand is issuing automatic six month visa extensions for any foreign national whose work, visitor or student visa application cannot be processed because of the Christchurch earthquake. Immigration New Zealand's central Christchurch office in the Crystal Plaza building is unable to be accessed for safety reasons. 2000 temporary visa applications are in that office.
For more information contact: Immigration New Zealand
Building / residential evaluations
Christchurch City Council advised that teams of building and health inspectors began assessing residential properties today. Forty teams are visiting the suburbs of Brighton, Dallington, Avonside, Parklands/Queenspark, Saint Martins/Opawa, and Lyttelton.
The Christchurch City Council understands the concerns of residents in rental properties, with regards to earthquake damage to their homes. The City Housing team are currently making their way around every single Christchurch City Council rental property and expect to have visited each property by the end of the weekend. For more information see: http://canterburyearthquake.org.nz/
Four teams will be examining commercial properties. Additional building inspectors and engineers have been requested. Shop owners and employees are not to visit/enter place of work if it has not been properly inspected.
Food safety
MAF (Food Safety) has issued advice to protect people from foodborne illnesses in the wake of Tuesday's earthquake. For information see Food safety in the Christchurch earthquake
Animals
For lost or found dogs please contact Animal Control on 021 240 8310 or visit 10 Metro Place - Open 8:00am to 6:00pm.
Information about animal welfare and lost/found pets is also available on the SPCA New Zealand website: Christchurch Earthquake - Updates, Lost/Found Pets and How You Can Help
Department of Corrections - Contact numbers for Community Probation Services staff and offenders
For staff: Corrections has set up a 0800 line to provide practical staff support and advice It is also available to staff throughout the country who may have family or friends caught up in the quake. The number is 0800 QUAKEINFO (0800 782 534). It will be staffed around the clock until further notice.
For offenders in the community: Corrections has begun making text and phone contact with all offenders in the Christchurch Area to confirm their safety and whereabouts. Offenders we have not reached yet are urged to phone 0800 222 337. This line will also be answered around the clock until further notice.
LIFELINE UTILITIES:
Airport status
Avoid any non-essential travel to or from Christchurch.
The airport has been open for domestic and international flights at revised schedules since 23 February afternoon. 24 February flight schedule expected to be back to normal.
Contact your airline before heading to the airport to reduce congestion.
Christchurch International Airport: 0800 568 369
Port status
Aiming to have limited container operations within three to four days with anticipated previous service levels in approximately 10 days. Other port operations are continuing.
Road status
18 bridges and 25 distributor roads continue to be impassable due to flooding and structural or surface damage (not state highways). Eastern parts of the city are worst affected.
All state highways and state highway bridge structures in and around the city have been inspected, and while some have sustained minor damage all of the bridge structures are safe, and all other state highways in the region are open. Motorists are being urged to abide by temporary speed restrictions in place on many parts of the network.
The NZ Transport Agency (NZTA) is aiming to re-open the Lyttelton tunnel to all traffic by Saturday afternoon. The structure of the severely damaged tunnel canopy was removed earlier today, and the agency has been allowing fuel tankers through the tunnel under escort.
Dyers Pass Rd is open. The Agency is working hard to re-open a section of SH74 (ANZAC Drive from Travis Rd to Metro Pl), but surface flooding and liquefaction are slowing progress. The Chaney’s on-ramp on the Northern Motorway reopened to single lane.
Information on earthquake damage to state highways will be regularly updated on the NZTA website (www.highwayinfo.govt.nz) or is available by phoning 0800 44 44 49. Assessments of bridges and other structures on the state highway network will continue throughout the week, and new information will be provided as it becomes available.
Rail status
North Island link to Christchurch open. West Coast to Christchurch is open. Dunedin line is open with speed restrictions.
Link between Lyttelton and Christchurch remains closed due to bridge damage near Heathcote.
Disrupted passengers are to call KiwiRail for alternative travel arrangements: 0800 808 400
Coach Services
Intercity Coach Services are operational and will depart and arrive on 23 and 24 February from the corner of Colombo StreetandBealey Avenue in Christchurch.
Electricity
Power restored to 60% of the city. Progress to restore is slow due to damage to the network and roading. Assessing the damage will take some days as much of the network is underground.
Telecomms
All networks have heavy congestion. Restrict mobile phone use to text messages ONLY. Only use the phone for emergency calls. Refrain from using data services (e.g. Internet browsing) as this is leading to congestion.
ESSENTIAL CONTACTS:
Earthquake Government Helpline: 0800 779 997
A service for people requiring information on income support, housing options / accommodation, health issues, community assistance, Civil Defence or any other government service.
Missing person enquiry line: 0800 RED CROSS (0800 733 276)
For queries about missing persons. People enquiring from outside New Zealand should call the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade: +64 7 850 2199
Healthline (24 hours): 0800 611 116
The service is staffed by registered nurses who will assess your health needs, and give information and advice to help you decide on the best level of care.
Housing Help: 0800 HELP 00 (0800 435 700)
Housing assistance or offers of accommodation (Christchurch area).
Earthquake Commission (EQC): 0800 DAMAGE (0800 326 243)
For information on EQC’s insurance cover, cleaning up and making a claim.
Christchurch City Council: 03 941 8999 (customer services)
For assessment of major structural damage to your home or business premises or for help with essential council services such as water supply or sewage disposal.
Christchurch International Airport: 0800 568 369
Including information about travel, tourism and accommodation.
Federated Farmers Helpline: 0800 FARMING (0800 327 646)
For information, advice and contacts for Canterbury farmers (weekdays 8.30am - 5pm).
Business Helpline: 0800 42 49 46
Information for business owners.
@NZCivilDefence on Twitter provides an automated feed of content from this site only. Follow @CEQGovtNZ on Twitter for updates, tips and latest news.
Feb 26th 2011, 2:28 am
#174
Victorian Evangelist
Joined: Sep 2005
Location: Melbourne, by the beach, living the dream.
Posts: 7,704
Re: 6.3 quake reported in Christchurch?
Guys - initial reports suggest there has just been a large rock fall in Lyttleton which has killed some more people - does anyone have any more details?
EDIT - Quote from Stuff "Reports of a rockslide in Lyttleton following an 3.5 aftershock have turned out to be false."
BB
EDIT - Quote from Stuff "Reports of a rockslide in Lyttleton following an 3.5 aftershock have turned out to be false."
BB
Last edited by Buzzy--Bee; Feb 26th 2011 at 2:32 am. Reason: inaccurate news reporting!
Feb 26th 2011, 2:30 am
#175
Frequent Flyer Member
Joined: Jun 2007
Location: Melbourne
Posts: 10,994
Re: 6.3 quake reported in Christchurch?
Reports of a rockslide in Lyttleton following an 3.5 aftershock have turned out to be false.
Mar 1st 2011, 11:32 am
#176
Home and Happy
Thread Starter
Joined: Dec 2002
Location: Keep true friends and puppets close, trust no-one else...
Posts: 93,814
Re: 6.3 quake reported in Christchurch?
Just been sent this at work - amazing photo taken from the Port Hills overlooking Christchurch NZ when the quake hit.
Mar 1st 2011, 5:24 pm
#177
---
Joined: Jun 2007
Posts: 2,994
Re: 6.3 quake reported in Christchurch?
Wow, is that pic really real? Amazing if it is! I'm always impressed when people get ti together to record or photograph something as it unfolds.
Mar 1st 2011, 5:43 pm
#178
Home and Happy
Thread Starter
Joined: Dec 2002
Location: Keep true friends and puppets close, trust no-one else...
Posts: 93,814
Re: 6.3 quake reported in Christchurch?
Came to us (Queensland emergency services) from a reputable source, so yes, as far as we know its real.
Mar 1st 2011, 9:59 pm
#179
Account Closed
Joined: Jun 2007
Posts: 383
Re: 6.3 quake reported in Christchurch?
What is this thing about dead whales being as a warning of a catastrophe coming?
Mar 1st 2011, 10:05 pm
#180
It is what it is Member
Joined: Feb 2010
Location: Blockhouse Bay, Auckland
Posts: 2,797
Re: 6.3 quake reported in Christchurch?
Whales use low frequencies to communicate and there is evidence that naval sonar can interfere with them, there is now a theory that whale strandings may have been down to pre-quake vibrations.....
I have no idea but I am sure they are sensitive to and therefore affected by frequencies we cannot sense.