Shaking the spire - Christchurch Cathedral The original stone spire of Christchurch Cathedral was damaged in three earthquakes. On 5 December 1881, a quake lasting 45 seconds brought down some ornamental moulding. In an earthquake on 1 September 1888, the top 7.8 metres of the spire collapsed. On 16 November 1901 the top 1.5 metres of stonework was shaken loose by an earthquake. The spire was finally remodelled in hardwood that is sheathed in metal. 3:18 PM
8.12.06
Measuring aftershocks Scientists are always eager to measure the aftershocks of a major earthquake, and often arrive soon after the earthquake to set up a series of portable seismographs. In the four weeks after a really large earthquake, they may record as many quakes as they usually measure in a year. The aftershocks can be used to study the interior structure of the earth in the area. By accurately plotting aftershocks, they can map the subsurface position of the fault and the directions of movement of land on either side the fault. 11:56 AM
1.12.06
The Department of Conservation is warning visitors to stay away from the shore of Crater Lake at Mt Ruapehu. The lake’s lahar warning has been raised, but there is still only a 1 to 2 percent chance of the lake bursting its banks. However, there is also a risk of being swamped by waves from ice falling off the northern cliff. 2:03 PM
