Kaikoura Earthquake media release #18, 23 November 2016, 1320hrs
23 November 2016, 1330 hrs

Civil Defence Emergency Management is working behind the scenes and on the ground, locally, regionally and nationally with partner agencies to ensure the needs of affected communities are being met, following the 7.8 magnitude Kaikoura earthquake on Monday.

“The Canterbury Civil Defence Emergency Management Group is coordinating groups and agencies to ensure everyone is being looked after,” Ministry of Civil Defence and Emergency Management Director, Sarah Stuart-Black, says.

In Kaikoura, Urban Search and Rescue teams are visiting rural houses to make initial assessments of earthquake damage. Teams from New Zealand Defence Force, Red Cross, New Zealand Police, Te Rūnanga O Kaikōura and Federated Farmers have been visiting isolated farms and homes, dropping off supplies and checking on immediate needs.

Under the state of local emergency, the Kaikoura Emergency Access Road (Inland Road) remains under the control of the Canterbury Civil Defence Emergency Management Group Controller. Work is continuing to make this road safe, but strict controls are still in place to ensure the safety of road workers, those delivering critical supplies and residents.

In Hurunui, drinking water is being delivered to Waiau and Waiau Rural Water schemes, and stock water is being delivered to those on Waiau Rural Water Scheme.
“Marlborough Civil Defence is coordinating support in the region, making contact with isolated communities, working to restore water supplies in Seddon and Ward and delivering supplies to people who need them.”

Marlborough Civil Defence is hosting a cross-agency community meeting with Ward residents and providing support to isolated residents in the northern part of Kaikoura district.

We have developed an earthquake support factsheet with partner agencies, with information for anyone affected by the earthquake. This includes advice on:

· Stress, counselling and support

· Accommodation and housing

· support for rural communities

· Iwi, hapū and whānau Māori support

· Financial support for individuals and businesses

· Insurance and EQC claims

· Schools and Early Childhood Centres

· Children and young people

· Health and hygiene

· Animal welfare

· Tourism and international visitors

http://www.civildefence.govt.nz/assets/Uploads/kaikoura-earthquake.pdf.

A 24/7 Earthquake Support Line is being run by the National Telehealth Service. If you need support or are concerned about how the situation is affecting you or your whānau, you can call for 0800 777 846 for support and advice.

ENDS

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