The cordoned-off area of central Christchurch may be cut back within the next four days, says a local business leader.

Strong winds that were set to hit Christchurch this afternoon did not eventuate, but residents are warned that they should secure loose roofs and beware of the threat of falling masonry.

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

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.

More than 600 patients have been admitted to Christchurch Hospital Emergency Department since the earthquake, including 164 with serious injuries.

Main Civil Defence updates following the Christchurch Earthquake

Christchurch's devastating earthquake has highlighted the benefits of micro-chipping your pets, says the SPCA.

Key stories on day five of the Christchurch earthquake.

Weekend Herald writer Phil Taylor takes to his bike to view the devastation in Christchurch.

Five key stories from this morning's coverage of the Christchurch earthquake.

Television bosses were in complex talks with advertisers yesterday to bring commercials back into their news schedules.

Hundreds of people displaced by Tuesday's earthquake have set up camp at Christchurch welfare centres and more are flooding in.

It's only when you start walking the streets of Lyttelton that the real extent of the damage becomes obvious.

Much of Christchurch is without essential services after yesterday's earthquake with gas, power, water and phone infrastructure all affected.

North Island hospitals are receiving Christchurch earthquake victims and plan to send specialists to help in the devastated city.

The Government was this afternoon waiting for details of deaths in Christchurch and a second emergency cabinet meeting will be held tonight.