NEW : Prime minister says government will not abandon Christchurch . The prime minister's office has confirmed that the Government is still in charge of emergency services and it remains committed to providing support for those affected by the earthquake. Roads were also damaged . A 7.0-magnitude earthquake hit the east coast of the South Island early Saturday . Roads and buildings were damaged .
NEW : Prime minister says government will not abandon Christchurch . The prime minister's office has confirmed that the Government is still in charge of emergency services and it remains committed to providing support for those affected by the earthquake. A 7.0-magnitude earthquake hit the east coast of the South Island early Saturday . Roads and buildings were damaged .