16 November 2016, 0800hrs

Kaikoura Earthquake media release 9

Civil Defence Emergency Management Director Sarah Stuart-Black says a national relief support effort is continuing today to support people affected by Monday’s 7.5 magnitude earthquake in Kaikoura.

“A local state of emergency was declared in Canterbury yesterday afternoon. We are providing the Canterbury Civil Defence and Emergency Management group with support and assistance, to respond to community needs, get essential supplies to people who need them most and to ensure that visitors impacted by the earthquakes are safe and being cared for.”

New Zealand Defence Force evacuated around 200 people yesterday and helicopter evacuations are expected to resume evacuating people this morning, with inward flights bringing in supplies.

HMNZS Wellington will survey the harbour area at Kaikoura this morning to find a suitable area for the HMNZS Canterbury to begin evacuating people. HMNZS Te Kaha and USS Sampson are also en-route to provide support.

Currently 50 percent of Kaikoura has access to the town’s water supply. We expect to have restored that to 75 percent by mid-morning. Door to door welfare checks are continuing in both Marlborough, Hurunui and Kaikoura.

People are being asked not to donate goods to the affected regions at this stage.

“It’s great to hear so many generous offers of support from individuals and groups around New Zealand. But for now, people are being asked not to donate goods.

“Relief funds have been set up, including the Red Cross Appeal, and donating money to these is a good way to show your support. You can also help by checking on your family, neighbours and anyone who might be feeling isolated across the country. Continue to support each other and ask for help if you need it.”

ENDS

© Scoop Media