A massive earthquake has devastated the New Zealand city of Christchurch, toppling tall office buildings at the height of the workday and killing at least 65 people. The earthquake struck in the middle of the day in Christchurch, south east of the city. 

Christchurch airport is currently closed and a state of emergency has been declared. A security cordon has been put in place in the city while emergency operations are carried out. 

The New Zealand Tourist Board said people are asked to avoid all non-essential travel to Christchurch. But it stressed that the rest of the country has not been affected. 

"All other South Island and New Zealand airports are open and operating. International travellers planning to visit New Zealand are advised that all regions outside of the Canterbury area remain operational," it said in a statement. "Travellers should check with their airline or travel agent before commencing travel." 

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