The death toll is expected to rise overnight following the earthquake in Christchurch, New Zealand.
At least 65 people have already been reported dead but it is believed dozens more are trapped beneath fallen buildings.
The country’s television channel, TV3, has estimated the figure could reach between 200 and 300.
It says there have been nine aftershocks since the 6.3 magnitude quake, which hit at lunchtime in the city. The latest tremor was a magnitude 5.0.
A state of emergency has been declared and the city’s airport closed.
Extra police, armed forces troops and search and rescue teams have been drafted in to help clear the wreckage and search for survivors.
Christchurch Cathedral, a tourist landmark, has been badly damaged and it is reported that at least one person is trapped inside.
The city was hit by a 7.1 tremor last September, but it struck in the early hours of the morning and no one was killed.
The country’s prime minister John Key described the city as "utterly wrecked", and said it was an “absolute tragedy”.
"We may well be witnessing New Zealand’s darkest day," he said.
The New Zealand Tourist Board websites said all other South Island and New Zealand airports are open and operating.
“International travellers planning to visit New Zealand are advised that all regions outside of the Canterbury area remain operational,” it said.
“Travellers should check with their airline or travel agent before commencing travel.”
TravelMole’s Graham McKenzie is in New Zealand and was due to arrive in Christchurch later this week.
He has been blogging about his trip for TravelMole and for the New Zealand Tourist Board.
“Needless to say the mood has changed somewhat within the last five hours with the awful news emerging from Christchurch,” he said.
“Listening to local television the Prime Minister has just been on to say that at least 65 people have lost their lives, all flights are suspended within the country, mobile communication networks are down and a plea has gone out not to drink the local water.
“One is often used to this type of news from many parts of the world but when it affects an area and city like Christchurch it seems to have an even greater personal impact. It’s like an earthquake crushing Brighton or Bournemouth. The quake happened at the worst time of the day and with no warning.
“The last 48 hours has stunned me yet again with the beauty of this country, the way people react to you and the general support that the community at large offer everybody. A tragedy like this, I suspect, will see Kiwis at their best.”
By Bev Fearis
