Canterbury Earthquake

Please see links below for updated information on donations and ACC for overseas visitors.

A magnitude 6.3 earthquake occured 10km south-east of Christchurch at 12.51pm on 22 February.

A state of national emergency has been declared for the city of Christchurch.

Speech notes and a video press conference by Prime Minister John Key are available here.

The latest information can be found on the Ministry of Civil Defence website: www.civildefence.govt.nz and the Environment Canterbury website: www.canterburyearthquake.org.nz

The Ministry of Civil Defence are asking that in order to minimise loading on the telecommunications network, people use text messaging and email to check if family and friends are safe.

New Zealanders in Canada who are worried about family and friends should continue to monitor the Civil Defence and Environment Canterbury websites, media reports and try to make direct contact.

A Red Cross Person Enquiry Line has been established for those outside of New Zealand with genuine concerns about relatives and family in Christchurch. The number is: 011 64 7 850 2199

Canadian nationals concerned for Canadian family and friends in New Zealand should contact the Emergency Operations Centre at the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade (DFAIT) Website: www.voyage.gc.ca/contact 
Email: sos@international.gc.ca          
Phone from within Canada: 1 800 267-6788 or 613 944-6788
Phone from outside Canada: 613 996-8885

Other nationals should contact their nearest diplomatic representative.

For the New Zealand Government's reponse to the earthquake visit www.beehive.govt.nz. This includes information about Accident Compensation Corporation (ACC) assistance to overseas visitors.

New Zealand media sites www.stuff.co.nz and www.nzherald.co.nz also have up-to-date reports on the situation.

Donations
Those wishing to make donations can contact the Christchurch Earthquake Appeal. The Christchurch Earthquake Appeal is now a "qualified donee" for income tax purposes and Canadian donors may now obtain tax relief for their donations to the Appeal.
Donations may also be made to the New Zealand Red Cross, the Canadian Red Cross, the Salvation Army or see KEA New Zealand's Donation Information. 

International students and parents
Information for international students and their parents about the Christchurch Earthquake.
Please refer to: Ministry of Education www.minedu.govt.nz
Frequently asked questions: 0800 225 580 (for callers within New Zealand)