NZ leads world in power cut

View photos

Christchurch led the world as it switched off the lights for an hour on Saturday night - and in the process cut electricity use by 12.8 per cent.

The city, with Suva, was the first of 380 towns and cities in 35 countries to power down for Earth Hour, which aimed to raise awareness of climate change.

Christchurch Mayor Bob Parker led the charge when he switched off the lights of Christchurch Cathedral at 8pm, while thousands of householders citywide switched off their lights and enjoyed candle-lit celebrations at home.