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Christchurch hit by series of earthquakes

Christchurch in New Zealand was hit by strong earthquakes overnight prompting the closure of the city’s airport.

The two tremors came 10 months after large parts of the city were destroyed by another quake.

The first 5.8 quake struck at 1.58pm local time followed by a second of similar magnitude 80 minutes later.

The first earthquake occurred 15 miles north-east of the city at a depth of 4.7km. The second was in almost exactly the same place, the US Geological Survey said.

The Foreign & Commonwealth Office said: “Some minor injuries were reported but there were no reports of serious damage, injuries or casualties. The airport was closed temporarily.”

It advised travellers planning to visit Christchurch to contact their travel agent, accommodation provider or tour operator to confirm any bookings.

More than 180 people were killed when the last earthquake struck in February, causing up to £9.9 billion in economic losses.

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