Tourism New Zealand is advising holidaymakers due to travel to Christchurch on the South Island to stay away following the earthquake last weekend.
Although Christchurch International Airport is fully operational and international and domestic flights are able to land and depart, tourists are being asked to delay non-essential trips to give locals time to repair the damage.
Tourism New Zealand chief executive Kevin Bowler said the industry was pulling together to support Christchurch, which was hit by a quake larger than that which devastated Haiti.
“The city has obviously been seriously affected and if visitors are planning a trip, they should contact their travel agent and accommodation provider before leaving," he said.
"The important thing is that those living and working in Christchurch are able to sort out their own safety and wellbeing in the first few days following the earthquake.
“New Zealand as a whole is certainly open for business, but those intending to stay in Christchurch are advised to check arrangements before leaving so they are not putting extra pressure on the region at the moment.”
Regular tourism updates will be carried on www.newzealand.com and www.christchurchnz.com.
Tourism New Zealand said several airlines had changed their flight amendment policies following the earthquake to allow passengers to postpone their trips.
By Linsey McNeill
