Craters opened up at a Kaiapoi motorcamp during this morning's earthquake, with caravans sinking up to their axles.

The cost of damage from today's devastating quake could be as much as $2 billion, Earthquake Commission chief executive Ian Simpson says.

Services and infrastructure in Christchurch have been seriously affected by this morning's quake. Here is the current situation.

Read the facts about this morning's quake, Christchurch's faultlines and the many aftershocks that have rocked the city.

An historic pub in the South Canterbury town of Temuka has been badly damaged by today's earthquake and the proprietor is unsure when it will reopen.

It struck in the wee small hours, a rumbling roar and intense swaying that lasted for the best part of a minute.

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.

Vodafone is advising customers in Christchurch to keep cellphone calls sort, or preferably use SMS messages.

The magnitude 7.1 earthquake which struck Christchurch about 4.30am today rates among the top dozen to hit New Zealand.

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

Read the 10 things you should (and should not) do after an earthquake has hit your area.

Hundreds felt a 'sharp, short jolt' which has reportedly caused some damage in Whanganui.

The tsunami that struck Tonga and Samoa last year was the result of a rare geological event.

A NZ man last night told of fleeing his Port Vila office building when a 7.5 magnitude earthquake struck Vanuatu, sending frightened residents and tourists rushing for high ground.

Oscar-winning actor Sean Penn has poured cold water on Wyclef Jean's bid for the Haitian presidency.

An earthquake has been felt in Palmerston North and other parts of the Manawatu as well as in northern Wairarapa and southern Hawkes Bay.