Police response and reassurance patrols supported by Defence staff are providing a high visibility presence overnight throughout Christchurch.
The city's frontline Police officers are focusing on general response calls while 30 soldiers from the 2nd/1st Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment, Burnham, work alongside police night shift reassurance patrols particularly in the city's eastern suburbs.
Police are pleased that people are generally heading advice to keep off the roads with few people out and about. Those who are have been pleased to chat with the Police and Defence patrols.
The Police Southern Communications Centre handled more than 80 earthquake related calls on Monday afternoon. These had tailed off by early evening although emergency services and local authorities are alert to the next high tide at 2.30am which could pose a flooding risk in Avonside and other low-lying areas.
People who do have to travel should continue to take care on the roads, reduce speeds and avoid flooded or silt damaged areas.
Ends
Kaye Calder
Police Media Liaison - Christchurch
Mobile: 027 241 6305