NEW Zealand Tourism has issued an operational update for international travellers in the country.
Considerable damage has been reported in the Christchurch Central Business District and in Lyttelton.
A state of national emergency has been declared, however this applies only to Christchurch area and does not have any direct impact on other areas of New Zealand. It is expected to last for seven days at this stage (commencing February 23).
There is a cordon around the central business district. Rescue work is ongoing. Power, telecommunications and essential services continue to be disrupted.
Christchurch International Airport is open for domestic flights and international flights. Passengers are advised to confirm check in times and revised flight details with their airlines. Delays are expected. The latest information is at www.christchurchairport.co.nz. The airport is providing free parking.
Travellers holding airline tickets for travel today are advised to check with their airline or travel agent before commencing travel to the airport.
Travellers not holding tickets for flights today but wishing to leave Christchurch are being assisted by www.civildefence.govt.nz.
?TransAlpine and TranzCoastal services are cancelled and are expected to resume on 1 March. Disrupted passengers or those with queries are to call KiwiRail for alternative travel arrangements on 0800 872 467 (if calling from New Zealand) or +64 4 495 0775 (if calling from overseas).
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Intercity Coach Services are operational and will depart and arrive from the corner of Colombo St and Bealey Avenue in Christchurch. Services throughout all other parts of New Zealand are unaffected.
Travellers that have booked rental vehicles should contact their provider to establish points of collection and drop off. Due to the cordon around the central city some operators have temporarily relocated their depots.
Travellers intending to travel to or from the Christchurch area over the next week are advised to avoid any non-essential travel.
Travellers with a trip planned to the Christchurch beyond 2 March should check with their airline or travel agent and keep watch of key websites.
For the most up-to-ate source of information, agents should visit www.civildefence.govt.nz or http://canterburyearthquake.org.nz/.