Strong earthquake hits New Zealand

Damage from the 7.1 magnitude quake

Early this morning an earthquake measuring 7.1 on the richter scale rocked the city of Christchurch. The earthquake caused several injuries, heavy damage including collapsed buildings and power outages. However no one was severally injured.


The earthquake struck about 30km northwest of Christchurch at 4:35am (0235 AEST) on Saturday, September the 4th. 


Aftershocks are still being felt, Christchurch International Airport has been shut down and rail transport has been closed whilst facilities are checked. 


The magnitude of the quake was originally estimated at 7.4 but was later downgraded to 7.1


If you were in any part of the South Island please comment on your experiences.