The earthquake - five things you need to know (Tuesday)

A building in central Christchurch is declared a no-go after Saturday's earthquake. Photo / Simon Baker

If you only have a minute and you want today's need-to-know earthquake news at a glance, this is the page for you.

1. PM to stay, cancels Europe trip

Prime Minister John Key has called off his trip to Europe, which was to start on Friday.
My Key said that the swarm of aftershocks last night in Christchurch had been a factor in his decision to stay.
"I've decided on balance it wouldn't be prudent for me to leave", he told reporters at Parliament.
He said Buckingham Palace, 10 Downing Street and the Elysée Palace would be contacted today and "I'm sure they will fully understand."

2. The Aftershocks

Aftershocks are continuing to hamper the repair efforts and shatter the frayed nerves of city residents.
Two more aftershocks hit Canterbury between 8 and 9am.
A quake measuring 3.6 on the Richter scale hit at 8.14am and was followed 10 minutes later by a quake measuring 3.6.
Both quakes had an epicentre 30km south-east of Darfield with a focal depth of 5km.

3. Getting downtown - the CBD Cordon

Police have pulled back their cordons around the Christchurch central business district.
Inspector John Price said the restricted area is now bordered by Colombo, Worcester, Madras and St Asaph Streets.
Mr Price said anyone wanting to access this area should go to the police checkpoints at the intersection of Colombo and Lichfield St or Madras and Cashel St.

4. Essential services

Water remains top of the critical list for affected households. Supply is ok, but it all has to be boiled for three minutes before using to drink, or even to wash your face in or brush your teeth. The reason is the possible mixing of town water with overflows from broken sewage pipes.
This website lists locations where water tankers are stationed and where portaloos are accessible.
Electricity has been restored to all but 3,500 people now. Buses are running, with some scheduling limitations.
KiwiRail suspended rail services before midnight and staff are now inspecting track and bridges.
Track damage has been found near Rolleston on the Midland Line, but the line South looks to be okay. Rail services should be restored this afternoon.

5. How can the rest of us help?

People wishing to make donations towards earthquake relief in Canterbury can do so online through the Salvation Army (or call 0800 530 000) and the NZ Red Cross (or call 0900 33 200 to make an automatic $20 donation.) Most banks around the country have boxes where donations can be made.