Christchurch earthquake (disambiguation) facts for kids

Christchurch earthquake refers to several powerful shakes that have happened in or near Christchurch, New Zealand. These earthquakes have shaped the city and taught us a lot about how our planet works.

What is an Earthquake?

An earthquake is when the ground shakes. This happens because of sudden movements deep inside the Earth. Our planet's outer layer is made of huge pieces called tectonic plates. These plates are always moving, but very slowly.

Sometimes, these plates get stuck. When they finally break free, they release a lot of energy. This energy travels through the ground as waves, making everything shake. The place where the earthquake starts underground is called the focus. The spot directly above it on the surface is the epicentre.

Why Does Christchurch Have Earthquakes?

New Zealand sits on the boundary between two large tectonic plates: the Pacific Plate and the Australian Plate. These plates are constantly pushing and grinding against each other. This movement creates many fault lines, which are cracks in the Earth's crust.

Christchurch is located in a region with several active fault lines. This means it is a place where earthquakes are common. Scientists study these faults to understand earthquake risks better.

Major Christchurch Earthquakes

Christchurch has experienced many earthquakes over the years. Some were small, but others caused a lot of damage. Here are some of the most important ones that directly affected the city:

The 2010 Canterbury Earthquake

On 4 September 2010, a strong earthquake hit the Canterbury region. Its epicentre was about 40 kilometres west of Christchurch. This quake had a magnitude of 7.1.

It caused widespread damage to buildings and infrastructure. Luckily, no one died directly from this earthquake. Many people were injured, and homes were badly damaged. It was a big shock for the city.

The 2011 Christchurch Earthquake

This was a very serious earthquake that happened on 22 February 2011. It was much closer to the city centre than the 2010 quake. Its magnitude was 6.3, which is smaller than the 2010 one. However, because it was so close and shallow, it caused much more damage.

Sadly, 185 people lost their lives in this earthquake. Many buildings collapsed, especially in the central city. This event changed Christchurch forever. The city has been rebuilding since then.

Other Significant Shakes in Christchurch

• 1869 Christchurch earthquake: This early earthquake happened on 5 June 1869. It was one of the first recorded significant quakes in the area.
• June 2011 Christchurch earthquake: On 13 June 2011, another strong quake hit. It had a magnitude of 6.4. This caused more damage to already weakened buildings.
• February 2016 Christchurch earthquake: This earthquake occurred on 14 February 2016. It was a magnitude 5.7 quake. It caused further damage and reminded people of the ongoing seismic activity.

Earthquakes Affecting Christchurch from Elsewhere

Sometimes, large earthquakes far away can still cause shaking in Christchurch. These quakes might not be directly under the city, but their energy can travel.

• 1855 Wairarapa earthquake: This massive earthquake on 23 January 1855 was one of New Zealand's largest. Even though it was far away, Christchurch felt its effects.
• 1888 North Canterbury earthquake: On 1 September 1888, a strong quake hit North Canterbury. Christchurch experienced shaking from this event.
• 1901 Cheviot earthquake: This quake on 16 November 1901 was centred near Cheviot. Christchurch felt its tremors.
• 2016 Kaikoura earthquake: A very powerful earthquake struck near Kaikoura on 14 November 2016. It caused widespread damage in the upper South Island and lower North Island. Christchurch felt significant shaking from this distant but huge quake.

Staying Safe During an Earthquake

It's important to know what to do if an earthquake happens. The main rule is "Drop, Cover, and Hold On".

• Drop to the ground.
• Cover your head and neck under a sturdy piece of furniture.
• Hold On until the shaking stops.

Being prepared helps keep everyone safe.