New Zealand's fourth straight women's World Cup win this morning was built around composure, veteran Anna Richards said.

New Zealand sailor Andrew Murdoch snatched bronze at the Laser world championship off Hayling Island, England, today.

Safety first is the message authorities want to convey as many displaced locals face a second night away from their homes.

Some residents in the earthquake zone may be without power until the end of the week, says lines company Orion.

New Zealand's Caroline Powell and mount Lenamore lead the field at Burghley after the Cross Country stage.

The 7.1 magnitude tremor that shook the South Island caused the most damage since the 1931 earthquake that flattened Napier.

The displaced of Christchurch were last night in makeshift shelters across the city, fearful of waking up again to more violent tremors.

Kyle Scott and Liz Blatch still had their wedding at Darfield's Oak historic homestead only hours after the 7.1 earthquake.

A formal curfew is now officially in place in the Christchurch central business district until 7am and those who breach it may be arrested, say police.

Christchurch Mayor Bob Parker says there is "significant structural damage" to his city after this morning's 7.1 quake, with some eastern suburbs facing possible evacuation.

Christchurch residents are recounting terrifying ordeals during this morning's 7.1 magnitude earthquake.