Christchurch still hoping to host Rugby World Cup
Christchurch is “utterly” committed to holding its Rugby World Cup matches, says the city’s mayor Bob Parker.
The quake-ravaged city is scheduled to host five pool games and two quarterfinals in the tournament, which begins September 9.
No decision has yet been made about the cup’s future in Christchurch.
The search for survivors from the earthquake has changed to one of recovery of bodies.
The death toll has risen to 161, and police have named the first two international victims of the quake. They are both from Israel – Ofer Levy and Gabi Ingel.
Radio New Zealand reported that last Tuesday’s quake brought an estimated 200,000 tonnes of silt to the surface of the city, more than half of which has been cleared away.
Student volunteers and about 600 farmers – calling themselves the Farmy Army – have been on the streets helping to clear away the silt.
A massive steel frame designed to brace the front wall of the Christchurch Cathedral has been put in place. It is hoped this will enable rescue workers to enter the site.
Rescuers at the Grand Chancellor hotel, which is visibly listing, have so far reached the 10th of 26 floors searching for bodies.
Source: stuff.co.nz
Ian Jarrett
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