Wellington CBD: What you need to know in the wake on Monday's earthquake

Name: Watch NZHFocus: Earthquake aftershock captured during Herald Focus Skype interview
Uploaded: 2016-11-14T14:45:40+13:00
Duration: 87 s
Description: A strong aftershock hits Wellington as Tristram Clayton interviews political journalist Barry Soper in his ravaged Wellington apartment

NZ Herald

14 Nov, 2016 06:00 PM2 mins to read

A strong aftershock hits Wellington as Tristram Clayton interviews political journalist Barry Soper in his ravaged Wellington apartment

It's business as usual today in Wellington after yesterday's large earthquake, but people are being urged to "use common sense" in the CBD area.

Workers should check with their employers to confirm their office has been checked and it is safe to return before travelling into the CBD.

Many carpark buildings have not been assessed, so public transport and carpoooling is encouraged to reduce parking stress.

Train services are also returning to normal. The Johnsonville Line, Kapiti Line, Hutt Valley Line and the Melling Line are running to Tuesday's timetable. Services on the Wairarapa Line will also be running a normal Tuesday timetable but may have fewer seats.

Bus diversions will be in place through central Wellington today as inspections continue on buildings following the earthquakes and high winds overnight.

Wellington Civic Defence local controller Gunther Wild said some buildings in the CBD are still being assessed.

"Central Wellington will be open for business today but people will need to use their common sense and avoid areas that have been cordoned off, particularly around Featherston St," Wild said.

"Employees need to check with their employers whether their building has been inspected and deemed safe to enter, and whether they should go into work.

"There are uncertainties around which carparking buildings will be open. Carpark buildings are still being assessed and it is likely some will be closed today.

"We strongly advise people to car-share, use public transport or be prepared to park out of the CBD and walk to work."

Harbour ferry services are cancelled because of damage to the wharf at Days Bay.

Tuesday rubbish collections will continue as normal in Wellington City, but the Wellington Central and Miramar libraries remain closed.

Strong winds overnight have broken glass on some buildings and the corner of Lambton Quay and Brandon St (Harbour City Centre) and the section of Pipitea St facing Pipitea House have been cordoned off because of the risk of falling glass. Building inspection and cleaning crews will be there this morning.