Second Major Earthquake Hits Christchurch

[RobWyse]

A large earthquake hit Christchurch at 12:51 NZDT (23:51 GMT). The earthquake has brought down buildings and ruptured pipes across the city. Multiple deaths have been confirmed, with more people reported trapped and injured.

Civil Defence has gone to Level 3 emergency alert, the highest possible for a regional disaster. Prime Minister John Key has announced plans to fly immediately to Christchurch, conditions permitting, followed by a speedy return to Wellington to work with Cabinet and Civil Defence.

Two buses are reported crushed by rubble. Witnesses heard screams coming from the Pyne Gould Business building where up to 150 people are feared trapped or killed. The airport has been shut down after it's tower collapsed, and the Lyttleton tunnel has been closed.

The city centre took a major beating, with many buildings damaged, including the cathedral. Christchurch mayor Bob Parker has warned That ”there will be bad news coming out of today”, and stated that the city resembles a ”war zone”.

Numerous places have been evacuated, including the Christchurch Police Station, and a partial evacuation of the Christchurch Hospital. The hospital is confirmed still open.

The Institute of Geological and Nuclear Sciences has reported that today's quake was stronger than the September quake, but lasted a shorter period. The 6.3 magnitude earthquake was centred about 10km south of Christchurch, at a depth of 5km. The earthquake was felt throughout the South Island, and in parts of the lower North Island.

Five aftershocks have been reported, the largest at a magnitude of 5.5.