The intensity of shaking during last week's quake was unprecedented in New Zealand for its Richter magnitude, says an engineering expert.

What is staggering about the Christchurch earthquake is the way it seems to keep getting bigger.

Politicians, industry bodies and celebrities have been urging tourists to keep coming, with the message NZ is open for business.

It's the only time I saw a policeman cry. Acts of kindness can do that.

Earthquake victim Shane Tomlin was today farewelled at the St Paul's on the Hill Church in Kaikoura.

Prime Minister John Key visited Christchurch's hard-hit eastern suburbs today to try and reassure residents they have not been forgotten.

Earthquake victim Shane Tomlin, whose family clung to hope after footage of him pulled from the rubble alive was broadcast around the world, was farewelled this afternoon at a church overlooking the ocean in his family hometown of Kaikoura.

People all around New Zealand are showing their support for Canterbury today, by dressing in black and red.

Half of Christchurch's heritage buildings are in danger of demolition after assessments showing they have severe earthquake damage.

Shane Warne will headline a cast of former cricketers and current sporting identities in a Christchurch earthquake appeal charity cricket match.

Images of the quake's aftermath captured by Herald photographers.

Tooth and claw competition is what we need, not John Key's mothering.

Search and rescue crews found two more bodies overnight, lifting the death toll from the February 22 Christchurch earthquake to 163.

With the rescue phase over in Christchurch's central city, authorities are working to restore vital services to the eastern suburbs.