Fiji's Prime Minister Commodore Voreqe Bainimarama has joined leaders of other countries in lending their help to New Zealand following the 6.3 Magnitude earthquake yesterday, which has killed more than 65 people and injured hundreds.

Prime Minister Commodore Voreqe Bainimarama said Fiji is saddened to hear news of the devastating earthquake in Christchurch.

He said Fiji shares with the Government and the people of New Zealand, the distress and sorrow, in these challenging times and has conveyed our heartfelt condolence to the bereaved families and all those who have been affected.

Commodore Bainimarama has assured New Zealand Prime Minister John Key that Fiji is ready to provide assistance in coping with the aftermath of the earthquake.

Specialist rescue teams from six countries are heading to Christchurch for relief efforts which include Australia, the United States, Singapore, Japan, Taiwan and Britain. Commodore Bainimarama said Fiji will not step back.

The United Kingdom has sent a 53-member search-and-rescue team to Christchurch, Australia deployed sniffer dogs and victim-recovery teams, the United States dispatched a team to help, and even the Internet search giant Google launched a person-finder application on its website.

With 11 Japanese students still unaccounted for and possibly buried in the rubble, Japan News reports that Tokyo is also sending a disaster relief team to the South Island.

Meanwhile, Fijian Nationals in Christchurch are safe however some have sustained damages to their homes.

This is according to the Foreign Affairs Ministry who is currently liaising with the Fiji High Commission in Wellington who has been contacting Fijians in the affected area of Christchurch.

Permanent Secretary Solo Mara said several were in the city when the earthquake struck but were fortunate to escape with minor injuries.

Mara said the Fiji Mission are currently trying to get in touch with Canterbury University for news on our students there and will update as details come to hand.

This is an advice from Fijivillage News to people who are still trying to contact their loved ones in Christchurch.

We have received confirmation that it is easier for you to text your loved ones and receive a reply.

Many phone lines are either jammed or down due to a number of mobile phone towers down in Christchurch.

 
Story by: Sofaia Koroitanoa