New Zealand quake shuts Lyttelton port

JOC Sailings -

New Zealand's Lyttelton port closed after a 6.4 magnitude earthquake hit Christchurch, the nation's second largest city.

The port, on New Zealand's southern island, has suffered major damage. It is not clear how long it will remain closed, Chief Executive Peter Davie said.

Inchcape Shipping Services said container ships, tankers, bulkers and passenger vessels due in Lyttelton port in the next seven days face probable delays or closure.

The port has suffered more damage than in a 7.1 magnitude quake on Sept. 4, 2010, Davie told the NZ Herald.

Road and tunnel access to the port, which has the southern island's largest container terminal, will remain shut until further notice, ISS said.

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