Christchurch Earthquake Information

Latest Update (From Tourism New Zealand)

24 February 2011 - 10:00

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The following is intended as an operational update for international travelers in New Zealand, intending international travelers to New Zealand and family and friends of international travelers. For the most up-to-date source of information, people should go to www.civildefence.co.nz or http://canterburyearthquake.org.nz

• People in New Zealand concerned about the wellbeing of friends and relatives who are in Christchurch should call 0800 REDCROSS (0800 733 276).
• For people enquiring about family from outside New Zealand should call +64 7 850 2199
• International travellers in Christchurch who need non-medical assistance should call 0800 779 997
• Click here for information on Diplomatic and Consular services

Background Considerable damage has been reported in the Christchurch Central Business District and in Lyttelton.

A state of national emergency has been declared, however this applies only to Christchurch area and does not have any direct impact on other areas of New Zealand. It is expected to last for seven days at this stage (commencing 23 February).

There is a cordon around the central business district. Rescue work is ongoing. Power, telecommunications and essential services continue to be disrupted.

Information for travellers in the Christchurch area

Christchurch International Airport for domestic flights and international flights. Passengers are advised to confirm check in times and revised flight details with their airlines. Delays are expected. The latest information is at www.christchurchairport.co.nz The airport is providing free parking

People who have tickets for flights booked for today
Travellers holding airline tickets are advised to check with their airline or travel agent before commencing travel to the airport.

Travellers not holding tickets for flights today but wishing to leave Christchurch are being assisted by Civil Defence

New Zealand Airports
All New Zealand airports, including Christchurch are open and operating.

Lyttleton Port status
Lyttelton Port operations are currently suspended.

Rail
TransAlpine and TranzCoastal services are cancelled and are expected to resume on 1 March. Disrupted passengers or those with queries are to call KiwiRail for alternative travel arrangements on 0800 808 400.

Road status
Many roads within the Christchurch area are closed due to liquefaction and distortion of roads.

All highways are open apart from the Lyttelton Tunnel and State Highway 74, which is closed at Anzac Bridge to Bridge Street. There are also some road closures in the Selwyn District.

Coach Services
Intercity Coach Services are operational and will depart and arrive from the corner of Colombo St and Bealey Avenue in Christchurch. Services throughout all other parts of New Zealand are unaffected.

Rental Car/Campervan collection and drop off
Travellers that have booked rental vehicles should contact their provider to establish points of collection and drop off. Due to the cordon around the central city some operators have temporarily relocated their depots.

Information for travellers with a trip planned to Christchurch area

Travellers intending to travel to or from the Christchurch area over the next week are advised to avoid any non-essential travel.

Travellers with a trip planned to the Christchurch beyond 2 March should check with their airline or travel agent and keep watch of key websites.

International and domestic flights are arriving and departing from Christchurch airport. Roads are open from Christchurch airport connecting the area with other locations in the South Island.

Highways connecting with other parts of New Zealand are open apart from the Lyttelton Tunnel and State Highway 74.

Information for family and friends of people travelling in the Christchurch area

People in New Zealand concerned about the wellbeing of friends and relatives who are in Christchurch should call 0800 REDCROSS (0800 733 276).

People from outside of New Zealand should call +64 7 850 2199. If you are unable to contact a friend or relative in the Christchurch area 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.

Other useful contacts

Air New Zealand. From New Zealand 0800 737 000, www.airnewzealand.co.nz
Jetstar. From New Zealand, 0800 800 995, www.jetstar.com
Qantas. From New Zealand, 0800 808 767, www.qantas.co.nz
Air Asia. From New Zealand, 0800 45 2566, www.airasia.com
Air Pacific. From New Zealand, 0800 800 178, www.airpacific.com
Emirates. From Air New Zealand, 0508 364 728, www.emirates.com
Pacific Blue. From New Zealand, 0800 670 000, www.pacificblue.co.nz
Singapore Airlines. From New Zealand, 0800 808 909, www.singaporeair.com
Click here for updates for international students and parents.