MFAT Media Update 8: Japan Earthquake and Tsunami

MFAT Media Update 8: Japan Earthquake and Tsunami

4:50 pm, 15 March 2011

• A magnitude 9.0 earthquake struck northern Japan at 6.46 pm (NZT) on Friday. The earthquake has generated a significant tsunami event which has impacted on northeast Japan.

• A New Zealand’s USAR contingent is in Japan. The Government will consider further assistance to Japan over the coming days.

• MFAT advises against all tourist and non-essential travel to Tokyo and tsunami affected areas in the northeast. Please see www.safetravel.govt.nz for full details.

• There are no reports of New Zealand casualties or injuries

• Reflecting registrations via our Safetravel site, Wellington crisis centre and the Embassy in Japan, MFAT has now confirmed 1721 New Zealanders are safe and well in Japan.

• The Ministry has specific concerns around the safety of 2 New Zealanders who we believe to be in the affected areas

• Embassy staff are providing a range of consular assistance to New Zealanders affected by the disaster, this includes visiting hospitals and evaluation centres

• MFAT Consular staff are also based at Narita International Airport in Tokyo and Sendai in the northeast to assist New Zealanders.

• All New Zealanders in Japan should monitor developments via media, and follow the instructions of local authorities.

• New Zealanders in Japan who are concerned about their safety should contact the Embassy on +81 3 3467 2271 or MFAT crisis centre on +64 4 439 8000.

• New Zealanders wishing to leave Japan should do so by commercial means. The airports are open and flights operating and New Zealanders wishing to leave Japan should contact their airline operator.

• The Ministry is closely monitoring events in Japan.

• New Zealand advice is in line with that provided by our consular partners (Australia, US, UK and Canada) to their nationals.

• New Zealanders who are unable to contact family in the northeast of Japan should contact the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade on: 0800 432 111; If calling from overseas call +64 4 439 8000

• New Zealanders in Japan are asked to register their details on www.safetravel.govt.nz

• The latest statements from the Prime Minister and Foreign Minister are available at www.beehive.govt.nz and MFAT's travel advice is available at www.safetravel.govt.nz

ENDS

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