15 February 2016

PRESS RELEASE – For immediate release

Earthquake-rattled Cantabrians & Social Media Users Turn to Grass-roots Communications

Grass-roots communications has again proved its value during a disaster with millions of social media users turning to Rebuild Christchurch following the 5.7 magnitude earthquake in Christchurch yesterday.

Within 24 hours of the 1.13pm earthquake on 14 February 2016, the Rebuild Christchurch Facebook page had reached 2.1 million users (1.2 million engaged), 55,000 unique visitors to the website and reached 180,000 Twitter users.

“The incredible reach of Rebuild Christchurch through times of disaster proves the effectiveness and power of online sharing through trusted independent community-based sources in times of disaster and crisis,” says Rebuild Christchurch Director Deon Swiggs.

“It is comforting to see people use social media as a virtual community to support each other through answering questions and being forthcoming of information to share.”
“The website and social media combination has proven once again a successful model to engage and get vital information out to communities,” says Swiggs.
Community-based online resources like Rebuild Christchurch have also become a useful tool for traditional media and support agencies to utilise during a disaster or crisis.
ENDS

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