NZ Post suspends Christchurch service after earthquake

New Zealand Post has suspended mail services in Christchurch after Tuesday’s earthquake caused havoc throughout the city and surrounding areas. The 6.3 magnitude quake struck the area at 12.51pm local time , with 75 people confirmed dead and hundreds declared missing.

In light of the tragedy, all New Zealand Post and Express Couriers operations in the vicinity will remain suspended until Monday when a further review will take place.

A statement issued by the operator said: “Our sympathy and thoughts are with everyone affected by the earthquake.

“The welfare of our staff is paramount and we are continuing the process of assessing whether they and their families are okay and providing assistance.”

The suspension includes Christchurch Mail Centre processing operations; postal and courier deliveries; and PostShop stores and box lobbies.

New Zealand Post said it will conduct structural audits on its PostShop stores, which will only be opened once they have been passed safe.

Service resumption at franchised stores will be decided by the franchise operator, the company said.

New Zealand Post CEO Brian Roche said: “We have decided to continue the suspension of operations at this time so we can fully assess the safety and wellbeing of our staff and their families, support staff personally affected by this terrible disaster and check the structural integrity of our premises.

“Unfortunately disruption and delays to our services in the region are unavoidable and we appreciate customers’ patience in what is an extremely challenging time for everyone,” he added.

A statement on Australia Post’s website said there will be likely delays to mail deliveries.

The operator said that all international mail items sent from the south island of New Zealand to Australia are expected to be delayed, as well as items sent from Australia to the south island.