Rotorua locals join earthquake search mission

Rotorua search and rescue members are helping with search efforts in Christchurch.
A Bay of Plenty emergency management officer and three search and rescue teams have all arrived in Christchurch to help in the aftermath of the earthquake.
A Bay of Plenty lifeline co-ordinator is also expected to be sent to Wellington today to work at the National Crisis Management Centre.
The three rescue teams have members from Rotorua, Whakatane and the Western Bay of Plenty.
The main role of these teams will be to search for and rescue people trapped in buildings and under infrastructure.
Bay of Plenty group controller Warwick Murray said all staff sent to Christchurch so far had arrived safely and wanted to start helping with the response efforts as soon as possible, but it was important they rested given the long trip.
"These teams have pretty much been on the road for the past 24 hours so it is appropriate that they were not mobilised until they were rested but we know they were anxious to start helping.
"In addition to staff already sent to help with the response, the regional group is continuing to compile a list of other appropriately qualified people and equipment, available for deployment."
Mr Murray said he was currently liaising with the National Crisis Management Centre about what assistance was still needed.
"If Canterbury needs our people and equipment to help them then we will get it there as quickly as possible."
He said he understood a lot of people wanted to help.
"But we need to ensure that we send people and equipment that is most needed and that is what we are focusing on at the moment."
If you have training in appropriate areas to assist with the Bay of Plenty's support for the Canterbury earthquake victims, please contact the Bay of Plenty Regional Council, email bopgecc@gmail.com or phone 0800 884 880 to register.