By James Murray
A state of emergency has been declared in Christchurch today after an earthquake measuring 7.1 on the Richter scale caused widespread damage.
The Minister of Defence made the announcement during an interview with 3 News this morning, after the earthquake, measuring 7.1 on the Richter scale, struck around 30km west of the city at 4.30am.
The Nation broadcast a special earthquake bulletin – Prime Minister John Key talks to Sean Plunket about the effects of the earthquake.
3 News