Update - Police response to earthquake

Police are continuing to respond to calls of damage and requests for assistance following the earthquake this morning.

Police are working closely with Civil Defence, who are leading the response, as well as Fire, St Johns and other emergency services to ensure the safety of the public.

Police staff are continuing to patrol the community and are responding to business as usual, as well as responding to reports of damage and requests for assistance.

Police’s main concern at present is maintain the safety and wellbeing of the public, while still responding to emergencies that may arise.

Police have confirmed two fatalities, although in both instances emergency services are still working at the scenes at Mt Lyford and Kaikoura.

At this stage no further details can be released.

Aftershocks are still occurring and Police ask people to follow the advice being put out by Civil Defence and avoid any damaged buildings, including buildings with large quantities of glass and masonry.

While the tsunami warning has been lifted, Police advise people to avoid coastal areas and waterways as tides may still be unpredictable.

Updates in relation to these precautions are available on the Civil Defence website.

NZTA is keeping information on road closures and damage updated on their website and social media.

Police advise people to check social media and news reports for updates on the condition of their area.

Significant damage has occurred on the coastal route between Picton and North Canterbury and must be avoided.

Information from Police Districts, particularly Tasman, Canterbury and Wellington is still coming through.

More information will be provided as it comes to hand.

Police and other emergency services support will be deployed as required.

Communication still remains an issue for northern Canterbury and Marlborough which is a priority for network providers.

ENDS

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