Update from Christchurch Airport

Due to a snow storm, all flights into and out of Christchurch are cancelled until further notice.

"We have two graders and a snow plow working continuously on the runways, but as fast as they clear the snow, it builds up again," said Geoff Eban, the incident controller at the airport.

Christchurch Airport terminal remains open, however, with over 500 people in the terminal waiting for flights to resume. "If the weather clears, we hope to open by mid-afternoon," said Geoff Eban.

Travellers are asked to check with their airline before coming to the airport.