Facts:

• Christchurch is the 2nd largest urban area in New Zealand, then population of 367,700
• 6.3 magnitude earthquake hit Christchurch at 12:51p.m., 22 Feb 2011
• Epicentre 10km Southeast from Christchurch, 5km deep
• Conservative plate boundary between Pacific and Australian plates
• It was an aftershock from September 2010 earthquake

Impact:

• 185 casualties
  → Lunchtime on weekday, busy CBD
  → Buildings weakened from previous earthquakes
• Up to 80% of water and sewage systems severely damaged
• Liquefaction – 400,000 tonnes of silt
• 80% of city lost power

Response:

• 2000 portaloos, 5000 chemical toilets brought there
• Rescue efforts by fire service for a week
• Total fire ban
• Distribution of water, food, medical supplies from many organisations

Last updated: Feb 2025