The Kaikoura Earthquake struck at 12:02 a.m. on 14 November 2016. It was felt around most of New Zealand and was centered in Culverden, North Canterbury. It has been officially registered at 7.8 magnitude, with major damage to the rural landscape in the top half of the South Island, and building damage in the Wellington area.
There have been a number of injuries, and sadly, two fatalities. Keswin Publishing extends our condolences to the families.
The tourist town of Kaikoura, on the eastern coast of the South Island, was cut off due to major slips north and south on State Highway 1, and the inland State Highway 7a. Many of the small, rural towns and farm properties have also been cut off from help, and have been without power, water and phone communications. In the days that followed, there has also been significant flooding from a storm that hit the Wellington region.
The disaster response to the Kaikoura Earthquake has included the Ministry of Civil Defence and Emergency Management, 111 emergency services, include New Zealand Fire Service USAR, New Zealand Defence Forces, International Naval Ships, Westpac Rescue Helicopter and many private companies. The New Zealand Response Teams from the Canterbury and Wellington regions have also been deployed.
Our Publisher, Deb Donnell, has been working in a volunteer capacity to keep followers on the CHCH EQ Photos Facebook page updated as news unfolds. There are links to information and images, including the New Zealand Response Teams deployments to Hurunui district and Wellington. Visit https://www.facebook.com/CHCH.EQ.Photos/ here.
As a company, Keswin Publishing has committed to support the NZ Red Cross Kaikoura Earthquake Appeal. A portion of all book sales for the remainder of 2016 will be donated to help the survivors rebuild their shattered lives. We appreciate your support of this commitment. View our catalogue at http://keswinpublishing.com/shop/.
-Ends-