Christchurch Earthquake - Update 3.00pm

Police Update following magnitude 5.8 earthquake at 1.58pm today.

Still no reports of serious or widespread damage or injury

- There is NO tsunami threat.

- Damage reported to the WINZ building in New Brighton - all staff safely evacuated.

- People are urged to stay away from hill suburbs because of risk of rockfalls.

- Coastguard have rescued four people trapped by rockfall in Boulder Bay.

- Liquefaction reported in Parklands, Wainoni.

- Power outages reported in New Brighton, Dallington.

- Severe traffic congestion now reported in some areas including around the Palms Mall and New Brighton Road.

- Drivers are urged to slow down and be patient as congestion is building up in some areas. Stay off roads if you do not need to travel.

- Phone networks are under pressure - text rather than phone.

Acting District Commander Inspector John Price says Police are urging residents to check on their neighbours and make sure they are safe.

All available Police units have been mobilised across the city to provide reassurance and check on safety and damage.