It's the only time I saw a policeman cry. Acts of kindness can do that.

Surrounded by her children in the garage of their Hampshire St home in the Christchurch suburb of Aranui, Mafutaga Manuleleua still feels unloved.

The thoughts of everyone should be with the families of the Christchurch earthquake victims following the change in the search focus today to recovering bodies, says an emotional mayor, Bob Parker.

Christchurch is "utterly" committed to holding its Rugby World Cup matches, and its citizens "will be far from pleased if they miss out on an event that has taken on a different meaning", Mayor Bob Parker said this morning.

More than a week after the devastating earthquake police are still treating the situation as a rescue mission.

John Key says his "strong preference" is to hold Rugby World Cup games in Christchurch, and says it's still possible if AMI Stadium is fit for matches.

The owners of the Canterbury Television (CTV) building are welcoming a government inquiry into why the building collapsed in the Christchurch quake.

Damage to historic sites an extra blow for grieving Christchurch.

Strong winds that were set to hit Christchurch this afternoon did not eventuate, but residents are warned that they should secure loose roofs and beware of the threat of falling masonry.

It could be weeks, possibly longer, before Rugby World Cup organisers are able to make a decision.

Damaged Cathedral becomes a rallying point for the people of a hurt and devastated city.

There are many ways that you can help in the wake of yesterday's devastating Christchurch earthquake.

Jovy Servitillo knew she was in trouble - she was on the 23rd floor of the tallest building in Christchurch.

At least one Australian "family man" is among the Christchurch earthquake dead and the Australian government has warned the public to brace for more bad news.

At least 14 people are missing from two companies in the Pyne Gould building in Christchurch tonight.

A woman trapped in rubble left a harrowing message for her son, in which she said she didn't think she would survive.

Police have abandoned all hope of finding survivors at the collapsed Canterbury TV building in central Christchurch, with a police chief saying he was "100 per cent" certain those trapped inside were dead.

In an emotional reunion, a woman trapped for more than 25 hours in a cramped, dark space in the destroyed PGG building has finally been rescued and reunited with her worried husband.

Many audience members walk out on performer and his 'perverted' show.