Tourism in NZ is normal everywhere but Christchurch
Last week’s earthquake in New Zealand was that country’s most devastating and expensive natural disaster, but it was tourism business as usual outside the country’s second largest city, Christchurch.
“New Zealand is open, welcoming and operating as normal, except for the Christchurch area which was affected by an earthquake on 22 February. The earthquake was localized to Christchurch city and Lyttelton in the South Island,” says the country’s web site.
The site says a “state of emergency” has been declared but applies only to the Christchurch area and does not have any direct impact on other areas of New Zealand. The state is expected to last for seven days, at current estimates.
This means that people are advised against non-essential travel to Christchurch city, however, “visitors are encouraged to continue with their plans to visit New Zealand. Travellers are advised that all services, including tourism businesses in other parts of New Zealand are operating as usual.”
All New Zealand airports, including Christchurch airport are open. Passengers at Christchurch are advised to confirm check-in times and revised flight details with their airlines. The airport is providing free parking, according to tourism officials.
All main roads throughout New Zealand, including main roads out of Christchurch Airport are also open.
Travellers are asked to contact their travel agent, accommodation, attraction or tour provider directly should they have concerns about any current or upcoming bookings before changing their plans.
Areas of Canterbury that are operating normally include Akaroa, Kaikoura, Aoraki Mount Cook and Hanmer Springs.
For more information, future updates are available at www.tourismnewzealand.com under the heading “Christchurch Earthquake Latest Update” on the home page.
By David Wilkening
David
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