-
Source: ONE News -
Watch Video
-
Related
Three days after a 7.1 magnitude quake struck Canterbury some areas say they have been left to deal with the disaster on their own.
People have told ONE News they are feeling isolated and wondering where the help is.
In New Brighton locals said they just want some answers.
"It's getting a bit angry at the moment, very touchy," Ross Tate said of the mood of the street.
For three days people have relied on each other, saying they have had no contact from authorities and no answer on the government help line.
"We've been calling the number and just getting passed on," said Tate.
The earthquake robbed them of water, power and dignity.
"We've been pooing in a bucket...it's just not fun," one resident said.
But as ONE News was filming reinforcements arrived in the shape of the Army bringing, along with other things and personnel, Port-a-Loos.
And the Army quickly swung into action, helping residents clear slush from the paths and roads.
But residents said another issue also needs urgent attention. They said thousands of people in cars have been driving through normally quiet streets to have a look at the damage, kicking up the dust, silt and sand they have spent hours cleaning up.
They said there's nothing to look at except piles of mud, broken houses and shattered dreams.
"If they want to come down here, they can bring a shovel and help," one person suggested.
In Hoon Hay a small civilian army is doing just that as dozens of students responded to a call for help from the community on a Facebook page.
The ground may have been ripped from under them, but they have level ground with support of others.
Apology over emergency number
Work and Income has apologised to people who have been unable to get through on the 0800 779997 emergency number.
Department head Mike Smith said he understands people are frustrated and said they are doing their best to ensure calls are answered quickly and that people are getting the information they need.
"I urge people who have still been unable to reach us on the 0800 number to keep trying. We have taken over 4,500 calls to date with most calls now being answered within 20 seconds."
And Smith said people can visit Work and Income service centres to speak with case managers face to face.
What's the most amazing tale of survival you have heard
of or experienced in this quake? Email
online@tvnz.co.nz
with an
image if possible.
Latest NZ News Video
-
ONE News Minute 9am update: May 26 (1:00)
-
Kids cough up $14m for Government (1:50)
-
Education ministry 'barbaric' (1:55)
