Christchurch City Council Media Advisory

Christchurch Earthquake - General Update

11pm Tuesday 7 September 2010

A state of emergency will remain in place tomorrow (Wednesday) and this will be re-assessed throughout the day.

The building evaluation team have now assessed 970 buildings within the CBD and along the edge of arterial roads. The teams are now able to move their focus to suburban areas, and today began house to house visits at Brooklands, with Bexley next on the list.

Civil Defence staff have also made further progress with road works and water connections today, however water is still off in approximately 66 streets. There is also approximately 500 homes without power.

Sewage issues in some areas remains a key concern. Port-a-loos were delivered to areas without water tonight and more will be going out tomorrow morning.

People are reminded to stay clear of the estuary, rivers and waterways as they may be contaminated by sewage. This includes not fishing or whitebaiting.

All water for drinking (including drinking fountains), brushing teeth, making coffee and washing food and dishes must be boiled for at least three minutes before use. Residents can use non-boiled tap water for bathing and showering.

Around 150 people are expected to make use of the welfare centres at Addington Raceway and Linwood College tonight. No more pillows are required at Addington Raceway after a generous response to the request.

The Christchurch City Council appreciates the many offers of goods, funds and assistance from its local community, as well as the support nationally.

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