The New Zealander

Breaking:

Aucklanders have uttered a unanimous call for support from their Christchurch counterparts, in the wake of today’s Harrowing magnitude 3.9 earthquake.

Says Robyn Howard, of Parnell:

“After today, I finally understand what it was like for all those Christchurch residents when they (the earthquakes of 2010 and 2011) hit.”

“Going through an experience like that… It changes you.”

Support shelters are being prepared in Ponsonby, Remuera, Takapuna, Parnell and St Helliers, for those most at risk of Post Traumatic Stress symptoms.

Brittany Coates, a dog walker from Herne Bay, likened the experience to “Some kind of war zone”.

Says Brittany:

“It was really scary. I didn’t personally feel it because I was on the toilet, but all my friends started texting me about it and I was like omg. I thought I was going to die.”

“I’ve never been through anything like this before. It was just crazy. I’ve kind of come to grips now… But it’s really made me stop and reflect, on you know, the fleeting nature of life and all that.”

Brittany said she will probably start “working for a charity or something”, once her St Patrick’s Day celebrations have concluded.

Auckland Mayor Len Brown has asked his Christchurch counterpart Bob Parker for “Any kind of advice really”, as he attempts to pull the rattled city back from it’s current state of delirium and panic.

“Yeah, I’ve been trying to call him. He’s not answering his phone. This better not be about the joke I made about hosting the Rugby World Cup. Because if it is I’m sorry Bob. I’m really sorry.”

A helpline, 0800GETAKLDTHRU  has been setup to provide assistance for all those affected.

Are you in Auckland? Have you been affected by todays earthquake? Leave a comment below: