Earthquake shuts Christchurch airport, diverts flights

UPDATE | Christchurch Airport has re-opened but many flights are understandably delayed and cancelled – travellers are advised to check with their airline for further details.

PREVIOUS | Christchurch Airport has been evacuated and incoming flights diverted following a large earthquake which shook the New Zealand city at 1.58pm local time today.

Several airlines with inbound flights have already reported diversions, with Qantas flight QF45 (Sydney to Christchurch) sent on to Wellington and Emirates EK418 (Sydney to Christchurch) also being redirected.

People with imminent travel plans to Christchurch are advised to contact their airline.

Twitter can also be used for real-time updates: monitor your airline's Twitter feeds and that of Christchurch Airport (@CHC_Airport), and also keep an eye on our own Twitter channel @AusBT for updates regarding Christchurch Airport.

Travellers on some other routes can also expect knock-on effects due to the diversions of aircraft away from Christchurch, which will cause delays in those aircraft being turned around and used for other services.