Authorities in Nelson are working hard to accommodate fleeing Christchurch residents.

John Key today launched the Christchurch Earthquake Appeal, a global fundraiser for the recovery effort in the city and the Canterbury region.

A leading structural engineer says our cities may have been "a little passive" about strengthening our buildings.

Christchurch's damage is on par with Haiti, says Helen Clark.

Relief workers from New Zealand and overseas are working tirelessly in Christchurch.

Only a few customers would be left without power in the coming week with electricity having been restored to 82 percent of households, lines company Orion said today.

Officials say 'horrendous' injuries are making victim identification difficult, as the massive rescue effort continues.

Prime Minister John Key has asked all New Zealanders to observe two minutes' silence from 12.51pm on Tuesday.

A round-up of the current situation in Christchurch as rescuers continue scouring the shattered city for survivors.

Experts believe a good number of families will depart the damaged city - and maybe the country - for good.

The earthquake has brought out the best in people - and sadly, the worst.

Damaged Cathedral becomes a rallying point for the people of a hurt and devastated city.

Rapper was meant to be with cousin, who was crushed in quake. But decided not to.

A British backpacker wrote forebodingly of his earthquake fears a few hours before he was killed.