Update On New Zealanders In Chile

* There have been no reports of NZers being among the casualties

* There are 170 NZers registered with the ministry as being in Chile.

* The ministry is making attempts to contact those people to check on their well-being. This process is currently being hampered by communications difficulties in Chile. A number of people have confirmed they are safe.

* Family and friends who have concerns about NZers in the affected area should try to make contact with them in the first instance.

* If they cannot make contact with relatives and have concerns they should call MFAT on 0800 432 111, or +64 4 439 8401 if you are calling from overseas

* People in Chile, or about to travel to Chile, are encouraged to register on www.safetravel.govt.nz.

* Those people who are about to travel to Chile should contact their travel agent as their travel plans may have been disrupted by the earthquake

* All New Zealand Embassy staff in Santiago have been confirmed as safe

ENDS