A CURFEW HAS been imposed in Christchurch in New Zealand following a state of emergency order being extended in the wake of Saturday’s 7.0-magnitude earthquake.

Strong aftershocks and gale-force winds have interrupted the clean-up operation in the city. The earthquake has ripped the facades off buildings, destroyed roads, and cut water and sewage services.

Although there were no deaths, a small number of people were seriously injured during the quake.

The army has been called in to assist police in maintaining order in the chaos of the earthquake’s aftermath. Troops have enforced a night-time curfew, following reports of looting, and have closed down some parts of the city.

Danger posed by falling masonry and glass is the reason for some areas being closed for public use, the civil defence ministry has said.

Schools and businesses have been closed, and the government has advised everyone to stay at home until inspections can be completed in more than 500 damaged buildings.

About 200 people whose homes have been badly damaged by the quake spent the night in shelters.