The death toll has increased to 147, and with more than 50 people unaccounted for, it will be higher than 200, police said tonight.

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.

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

Christchurch teachers are being urged to stay away from the classroom for their own safety.

Effort are under way to help hundreds of international tennis players get home from Christchurch following last week's deadly earthquake.

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.

It could be weeks, possibly longer, before Rugby World Cup organisers are able to make a decision.

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.