In light of the tragic events in Christchurch on Friday, we're sharing this helpful visitors' update from the team at ChristchurchNZ.com, about how the city is coping, what services are affected and where to find information.
Our deepest sympathies are with the families affected and the people of our Muslim community who have suffered intolerable losses while gathering in peace and prayer. The attacks that have occurred in our city are a shocking assault on our people, our city and our country. New Zealand is a country that values peace and kindness. Christchurch is a city that cherishes these values and will continue to unite to foster love and hope.
Some key messages for you to share on your networks:
On 15 March 2019 (NZT) a mass shooting occurred in Christchurch, New Zealand.
New Zealand's Prime Minister has condemned the act of violence against innocent people and has described this as one of New Zealand's "darkest days".
This event is unprecedented in New Zealand. The focus at this time is supporting those families and communities impacted by the attack and work to ensure people feel safe and secure.
The actions of those responsible do not represent the New Zealand people. New Zealand has responded to the event by strongly condemning the actions of those responsible for the attack and supporting those affected.
New Zealand's national threat level has for the first time been lifted to high which triggers a number of actions to help keep people safe, such as increased aviation and boarder security. This includes additional security screening at Christchurch Airport.
People considering travel to New Zealand for business, education or a holiday are advised to seek travel advice from their own government. Currently, we are not aware of any countries advising against travel to New Zealand.
Visitors in New Zealand are advised to keep themselves informed by monitoring the media and other local information sources such as the NZ Police social media accounts.
Information for those looking to travel to Christchurch for work or leisure:
Christchurch is open, and warmly welcomes those who wish to explore our city for work, leisure or to pay their respects.
All visitors are advised to follow the advice of the emergency services in Christchurch, and the travel advice of their nation's embassies. At this stage, there is little further update for visitors except that this was a tragic incident, and not typical for New Zealand. The New Zealand Police have advised Christchurch is safe for residents and visitors, although the national terror threat remains high and all persons should remain vigilant. There is an increased police presence in Christchurch which will remain for some weeks.
Christchurch is committed to supporting our visitors. If any visitors wish to access on the ground support, our iSITE is open at the Arts Centre, 28 Worcester Blvd from 8.30am to 6pm daily and can also be contacted on +64 3 379 9629 or info@christchurchnz.com
Memorials and sympathies
The Great Hall, at the Arts Centre on Worcester Blvd, is open as a place of reflection and gathering. All are welcome.
A memorial is planned to take place in Cathedral Square on Thursday 21 March at 8.30pm. There are no further details at this time.
A condolence book has been set up on the ground floor of T?ranga, our central library, where people can leave messages of support and sympathy to those affected by Friday's mosque shootings. T?ranga is open 8am-8pm on weekdays, and 10am-5pm on weekends.
Flowers are being placed at:
The Botanic Gardens entrance, along Rolleston Ave, central Christchurch
The corner of Deans Ave and Riccarton Rd
The intersection of Linwood Ave and Aldwins Road intersection
The intersection of Cashel St and Linwood Ave
Our People, Our City
At the Mayor's request, the Christchurch Foundation has established a new fund to help raise money for the ongoing support of the families and Muslim communities impacted by Friday's tragic events. The fund is called Our People, Our City. Anyone wishing to contribute to the fund can do so at any TSB branch or by bank transfer to the Foundation's bank account listed below:
The Christchurch Foundation
15-3976-0091104-80
Most importantly
If you are feeling distressed in the wake of these tragic events, you can call or text 1737 to speak to someone - they will listen with open hearts. Take care of yourselves and each other.
Travel
Travel is currently unrestricted in Christchurch, except for some road closures near the incident locations.
Christchurch International Airport. Christchurch International Airport is open and operating. The best places for flight information are
www.ChristchurchAirport.co.nz or the individual airlines. Passengers departing from Christchurch are advised to arrive early to allow time for screening by AVIATION SECURITY SERVICES.
Accommodation
There has been no reported impact on accommodation in the city. It should be considered that all accommodation is operating as usual.
Attractions
Most Christchurch visitor attractions, caf�s and restaurants and public spaces are open as usual.
For further visitor information on specific attractions please contact:
Christchurch i-SITE Phone +64 3 379 9629 info@christchurchnz.com