Christchurch earthquake

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

The latest information can be found on the Ministry of Civil Defence website and the Environment Canterbury website.

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

New Zealanders in Poland who are worried about family and friends should continue to monitor the above websites, media reports and try to make direct contact. Once a national helpline has been established that number will be provided via the websites above.

Polish nationals concerned for Polish family and friends in New Zealand should contact the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Poland for consular advice.

Those planning on travelling to Christchurch should contact their airline or travel agent before commencing travel. All other South Island and New Zealand airports are open and operating. International travelers planning to visit New Zealand are advised that all regions outside of the Canterbury area remain operational. Tourism New Zealand's website has further information for visitors to New Zealand.

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

For the New Zealand Government's reponse to the earthquake visit www.beehive.govt.nz