Business as usual' at Christchurch airport after earthquakes rock New Zealand city

Anyone planning to travel to Christchurch is being told to continue their journey as usual, despite the fact that two powerful earthquakes shook the city in New Zealand earlier today.
Christchurch International airport was temporarily closed this morning while safety inspections took place but has re-opened for both domestic and international flights.
Passengers are being warned to expect delays and to check with their airline before they travel. All major highways connecting the city with other parts of New Zealand are also open.

A statement on the UK Foreign Office’s website says: ‘There are no travel restrictions in place for New Zealand. Travellers are advised that all services outside of central Christchurch and Lyttelton, including tourism businesses, are operating as normal.
‘However, some parts of the central city of Christchurch are currently not accessible to the public. If your travel plans include Christchurch city, you are encouraged to contact your travel agent, accommodation, attraction or tour provider directly to confirm upcoming bookings

Tourism New Zealand says parts of the city centre have been cordoned off to the public but the cordon is gradually receding as more of the city is deemed safe and open for business.
Air New Zealand says it has arranged additional flights to help move people in and out of the city but the airline is facing a backlog following the closure of the airport. A spokesperson for the airline told TravelMail: ‘We are unlikely to be able to completely clear the backlog and there maybe changes to flight schedules tomorrow which we will advise once known.’
Passengers who had already purchased Air New Zealand tickets for travel to or from Christchurch between today and 17 June should call 0800 028 4149 if they wish to defer their travel to a later date within 12 months of the original booking or change their destination without penalty.





Business as usual' at Christchurch airport after earthquakes rock New Zealand city