There have been 'multiple fatalities' after a shallow 6.3 magnitude earthquake in Christchurch this afternoon caused buildings to collapse, police have confirmed.

The iconic Christchurch Cathedral was destroyed in February 22's deadly earthquake, and up to 22 people are believed to be buried in the rubble.

Photos are coming in of the devastation caused by today's large earthquake, which occurred at 12.51pm in Christchurch.

A Govt package for displaced homeowners is the 'first really positive thing' since the Canterbury quake, a resident says.

Cantabrians forced out of their earthquake-damaged homes are set to get financial assistance and help finding accommodation from the Govt.

Tony Stuart awoke today wondering how much more damage his house could absorb after the latest aftershock in Canterbury.

There have been almost 3500 claims so far from the Boxing Day earthquake that struck Canterbury, the Earthquake Commission said today.

Catching up with Xavier Trousselot-Rhodes - the lad who fell out of his house as the earth heaved.

Catching up with Angela Wasley

Two aftershocks have struck 20km west of Christchurch this morning, GNS Science is reporting.

Tomorrow night's New Year's Eve celebrations in Cathedral Square will go ahead as planned, after quake-hit buildings were deemed safe.

The decision on whether Cathedral Square is safe enough to hold the traditional New Year's Eve celebrations after aftershocks on Boxing Day damaged buildings will be made tomorrow.