A state of emergency has been declared after a 7.1 magnitude earthquake caused widespread damage in Christchurch and surrounding areas this morning.
The earthquake, which struck at 4.35am, was centred 30km west of Christchurch.
PHOTOS: Earthquake hits Christchurch
Several buildings in the central city collapsed and power and water were cut in some areas.
Two men were seriously hurt — a man in his 50s is in a serious condition in intensive care at Christchurch Hospital after a chimney collapsed on him and another man was injured by falling glass.
Roads have been badly damaged, with several streets impassable.
There have been reports of looting and police have now closed the cental city because of the amount of rubble.
Civil Defence is urging people to inspect their homes for damage and move everyone outside if the building is unsafe.
Residents may have to be evacuated from seaside suburbs because of the risk of flooding from broken water and sewage pipes.
They are also asking people not to overload phone lines with non-emergency calls and to avoid non-essential travel.
There have been several aftershocks and this is expected to continue.
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Christchurch Hospital is open but people should only go there in an emergency. Minor injuries can be treated at the 24 Hour After Hours Surgery in Bealey Ave.
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