Telecom NZ network down following Canterbury earthquake

Telecom New Zealand (ASX: TEL) has confirmed that its network in the South Island has been affected by an earthquake measuring 6.3 on the Richter scale.

Multiple fatalities have been reported, including two buses crushed by falling buildings.

A statement from the telecommunications company said Telecom is working intensively to understand which services have been affected by today’s earthquake and get these restored as soon as possible.

On Twitter the company was reporting that a large number of customers had no access to emergency services.

“Our thoughts are with the people of Canterbury,” the statement reads. “We will provide regular updates as more information becomes available.”

A Vodafone New Zealand spokeswoman said the company was currently prioritising the safety of its people and stores.

“Our core network is functioning as per normal, although we have sustained damage to approximately eight sites and have a large number running on battery back up," the statement reads. "There is heavy congestion on the network and we encourage people to text rather than call in order not to overload the network and to preserve their phone’s battery life.”

TelstraClear reported that its core infrastructure in the region was still operating but there were widespread power outages in Christchurch.

"As a result we have around 100 cabinets without power," a spokesperson told Computerworld Australia. "These are currently running on back-up power. This means our voice services are still operating, except where there is damage to phone lines, individual premises or power is lost to premises. “Around half of our cable modem customers are without services. This may be due to power outages or damage to premises.As soon as it is safe we will have technicians inspecting the network."

Follow Hamish Barwick on Twitter: @HamishBarwick

Follow Computerworld Australia on Twitter: @ComputerworldAU

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