The New Zealand High Commission, London, reports that Christchurch and the wider Canterbury region is recovering well from the 7.1 magnitude earthquake on 4 September.
High levels of preparation prior to the earthquake have seen essential services quickly restored to most of the affected area.
An area of central Christchurch is cordoned off, and this cordon is reviewed daily. The remainder of Christchurch is accessible.
Devonport, NZ - towards Rangito. Photo: VDuBourdieu©2010
No other areas of New Zealand are affected by the earthquake.
Christchurch International Airport is operating as normal, as are most transport links, and 90% of tourism operators in Canterbury report they are open for business.
Tourist areas around Christchurch including Hamner Springs, Akaroa, Kaikoura and the local ski fields are unaffected, as is much of the Canterbury region surrounding Christchurch.
Travellers who have bookings for travel to Christchurch and the Canterbury region over the next few weeks should contact their travel providers for the latest updates.
Those intending to transit through Christchurch to other regions will be unaffected.
Initial assessments suggest that the Rugby World Cup events planned for Christchurch in September / October 2011 will proceed as planned. The situation is being carefully monitored.
For the latest information, we suggest New Zealanders in the United Kingdom and Ireland visit the Ministry of Civil Defence website.
www.canterburyearthquake.govt.nz displays key information from local and central government and links to useful websites.
www.newzealand.com/earthquake and www.christchurchnz.com have information which may be of interest to tourists.
www.minedu.govt.nz provides information aimed at students in Christchurch.
www.stuff.co.nz and www.nzherald.co.nz have up-to-date media reports on the situation.
The New Zealand Red Cross have set up a Canterbury Earthquake Appeal. Donations can be made online through their website.
