OCEANIA

Lyttelton overcomes second quake setbacks

16 years ago

Lyttelton Port of Christchurch has proved strong in the face of continued adversity, reeling from the second major earthquake in just five months.

Pier damage at Christchurch's port needs "urgent minor works"

A 6.3 magnitude earthquake hit the city on February 22, causing further damage to Lyttelton’s infrastructure and facilities which are still recovering from the 7.1 magnitude earthquake that struck in September 2010.

But fuel and essential supplies are expected to start moving through the port tomorrow, and the first container ship is expected to be unloaded on the same day to move urgently needed medical supplies to the city.

Port chief executive Peter Davie confirmed that there were no injuries sustained at the port. After a structural assessment he said that the oil berth had “held up well”, and the same was said of the container assets, although there were said to be “urgent minor works” to be done.

Immediately after the quake, Lyttelton said its “best estimate” was to get back to its previous operation service levels in 10 days.

“Personally, I wish to acknowledge the incredible effort from the LPC team whose aim is to ensure our customers’ and community needs are met,” said Mr Davie.