CHRISTCHURCH EARTHQUAKE UPDATE

Christchurch earthquake update - Luxury Travel Magazine

Christchurch earthquake update

Date: February 25, 2011

Maddy Gerrard

The devastation continues in Christchurch following the 6.3 magnitude earthquake that hit at 12.51pm local time on Tuesday 22nd February, titled New Zealand’s “darkest day”. This earthquake was the most significant to hit New Zealand since 1931 and consequently has caused causalities and inflicted serious damage throughout the region. Fortunately, a number of luxury accommodation destinations within the Canterbury district have emerged with minimum damage.

Otahuna Lodge, which had only reopened on January 10 following its closure due to a previous earthquake in September, withstood this recent traumatic event. It was reported that all guests left the property safely and all staff who were on or off the property at the time are also unharmed. The building, which is a Category 1 New Zealand Historic Places Trust Landmark, still stands and retains its architectural integrity, however damage to the internal walls and ceilings have been incurred. Although the extent of the damage is still been assessed, recent seismic improvements following the September earthquake undeniably prevented considerable further damage. As a result Otahuna Lodge has closed for the immediate future, working closely with peer properties throughout New Zealand to re-accommodate guests. The team at the luxury lodge have made a donation to the Red Cross to help rebuild their community.

Navigate Oceania’s luxury properties in Christchurch – Clarement, Huntley Lodge, 36 Chester and Elm Tree House – sustained very little damage, and are operating as normal. All four properties have availability and can accommodate guests who have been relocated from other, less fortunate, properties. Similarly, Grasmere Lodge, a high country retreat located in the Canterbury region, was not affected whatsoever by the February earthquake. The Lodge and surrounding farm are continuing business as usual.

At Peppers Clearwater Resort located in Christchurch no one was injured and no major structural damage has been recorded. 105 guests and nine operational staff were at the property when the quake struck however all staff have contacted family to advise they’re safe and the resort are providing working phones at the property for guests to contact their loved ones. The luxury resort is currently operating on emergency electricity and water supplies and wishes to stress that email and phone communication is limited. Peppers is contacting guests with forward bookings and is helping these people make new travel arrangements.

Domestic and international flights are now operating from Christchurch airport, however people have been asked to avoid all non-essential travel to Christchurch while rescue attempts are underway.