22/02/2011

Britons Speak Of New Zealand Earthquake

UK citizens caught in the devastation of the Christchurch earthquake have spoken out about the chaos that took place in New Zealand's second city.

The 6.3-magnitude earthquake, which struck at lunchtime, is believed to have killed around 65 people.

A British backpacker said the area "looked like a bomb had hit it".

Last September the city was hit by a 7.1-magnitude quake, which left two people seriously injured. The quake caused an estimated $3bn in damage.

The Foreign Office said it was "urgently" seeking information about British casualties.

It is offering consular assistance for anyone with concerns regarding family or friends who may be in the Christchurch area. They can be contacted on 0207 008 1500.

Meanwhile, the Department of Foreign Affairs in Dublin says it is also "urgently" working with New Zealand government officials on the possibility of any Irish Nationals being caught up in Tuesday morning's earthquake.

The Department said they are trying to make contact with Irish nationals registered in the area, as there are believed to be around 1,000 Irish people living around the quake's epicentre in Christchurch.

The Government in the Republic of Ireland has issued a number. The Department of Foreign Affairs in Dublin can be contacted on 00 353 1 478 0822.

See: Irish Victims Sought After NZ Quake

(BMcN)

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