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EARTHQUAKE IN CHRISTCHURCH – TUESDAY 22 FEBRUARY 2011 AT 12.51PM – Update #1

Please be advised that Christchurch has experienced a significant earthquake today, Tuesday 22 February 2011, at 12.51pm.  It measured 6.3 on the Richter scale, and was situated 5km deep and centred 10km south east of Christchurch city. Since then there have been more aftershocks noted.

We are in the process of contacting all clients either in the area, or who are due to travel there in the next few days, to ensure that those in the city are safe and accounted for, and those that are due to travel to the city, have a suitable alternative plan in place.

We can advise you as follows:

• currently Christchurch Airport is closed while runways and buildings are assessed
• Budget Rental Car Depots in Christchurch City and Airport are not operational until further notice
• Power has been cut to 80% of the city
• Central City is being evacuated
• Millennium Christchurch, Copthorne Central and Copthorne Durham all evacuated,  at the time of publication no injuries to staff or guests
• We have received reports in the media of some fatalities and injuries as a result of the quake
• Tranz Scenic Trains will not be operating tomorrow (Wednesday 23 Feb 2011) and possibly not for a few days depending on safety checks
• It seems a cordon is in place in the central city. At this point we are unsure the of the exact borders of it
• Bottled water is recommended for drinking as water pipes have been damaged in the area

Civil Defence Damage assessment (1430hrs):

There is major damage in the Christchurch CBD, and there are a number of people with significant injuries.
A level 3 emergency has been declared. This is the highest level that can be declared for a regional emergency.  

Please be assured that Pacific Destinationz and its staff will be in close contact with your clients, and we will bring you further updates tomorrow morning.

We thank you for your understanding at this difficult time