Christchurch Earthquake Update Three

See our New Zealand Earthquakes page for ongoing updates - infonews.co.nz

10.00am, Wednesday 23 February 2011

 Situation update

Considerable damage has been reported in the Christchurch Central Business District and in Lyttelton. The Christchurch central city has been cordoned off and is not accessible.

Christchurch International Airport opened for domestic flights at 8am this morning. Travellers are advised to go to www.christchurchairport.co.nz for the latest information on international and domestic departures or to call their airline for flight details. Departing passengers should not go to the airport unless they have confirmation their flight is scheduled.

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. As a precaution, travelers are advised to check with their airline or travel agent before commencing travel.

People who have tickets for flights booked for today

Travelers holding airline tickets are advised to check with their airline or travel agent before commencing travel to the airport.

Travelers not holding tickets for flights today but wishing to leave Christchurch

Opportunities are being provided for visitors to leave Christchurch by Civil Defence. This will help to free up accommodation in Christchurch and also reunite people with friends and family. People in this situation 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.

Road status

All highways are open apart from Lyttelton Tunnel, State Highway 74 and Anzac Avenue Bridge for which a detour is available.

There are reports of major damage to local roads in the city and liquefaction and surface flooding. There are also some road closures in the Selwyn District.

Coach Services

Intercity Coach Services are operational and will depart from the corner of Colombo St and Bealey Avenue in Christchurch.

Lyttleton Port status

The harbour is closed for at least 24 hours.

Next update

Tourism New Zealand will issue the next update at approximately NZT 1.00pm -  23 February, 2011.

Useful contacts:

• A New Zealand Red Cross Person Enquiry Line should call 0800 REDCROSS (0800 733 276)

• For people enquiring about family from outside New Zealand should call +64 7 850 2199

• International Visitors in Christchurch who need assistance should call 0800 779 997

• New Zealand Ministry of Civil Defence & Emergency Management website, www.mcdem.govt.nz or http://www.civildefence.govt.nz/

• Environment Canterbury's earthquake site at http://canterburyearthquake.org.nz/.

• Christchurch Airport: http://www.christchurchairport.co.nz/