More evacuations in quake-ravaged Christchurch

Police are urging people to stay off Christchurch's badly damaged roads where possible so as not to hold up essential services. Photo / Greg Bowker

Civil Defence and Urban Search and Rescue teams evacuated residents from the quake-stricken Christchurch suburb of Mt Pleasant overnight.

Twenty-three properties in Bridle Path Road, La Costa Lane, Maffeys Road and McCormacks Bay Road were evacuated due to falling rocks.

Meanwhile, police have urged people to stay off Christchurch roads so that essential services are not held up.

They also say the risk of bricks and windows falling from buildings in the central city remains high and people should stay away from the CBD.

- NZPA