NZ quake update - Christchurch Airport resumes operations
- Latest News
- Thursday, 24 February 2011
Considerable damage has been reported in the Christchurch Central Business District and in Lyttelton.
A state of national emergency has been declared, however this only applies to the 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. There is a cordon around the central business district. Rescue work is ongoing. Damage assessment is under way.
Christchurch International Airport has reopened for both domestic and international flights. Departing passengers should not go to the airport unless they have confirmation that their flight is scheduled. 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 the Civil Defence. 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. All South Island and New Zealand airports are open and operating. International travellers planning to visit New Zealand are advised that all regions outside of the Canterbury area remain operational. As a precaution, travellers are advised to check with their airline or travel agent before commencing travel.
Numerous bridges and roads are impassable due to flooding and structural or surface damage. All highways are open apart from the Lyttelton Tunnel and State Highway 74, which is closed at Anzac Bridge between Wainoni and New Brighton Road. 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.
Intercity Coach Services are operational and will depart from the corner of Colombo St and Bealey Avenue in Christchurch. The Lyttelton harbour is closed for at least 24 hours.
The Christchurch/Arthurs Pass/Greymouth and Greymouth/Arthurs Pass/Christchurch train services, The Christchurch/Kaikoura/Blenheim/Picton and Picton/Blenheim/Kaikoura/Christchurch train services have been cancelled until 01 March. Disrupted passengers can call KiwiRail for alternative travel arrangements 0800 808 400.
