At least 65 people were killed, buildings were flattened, falling debris crushed vehicles and panic-stricken people shrieked in fear as an earthquake of 6.3 magnitude caused the earth to heave in this New Zealand city.

Prime Minister John Key said the toll stands at 65 and is likely to rise. Key, who flew down to Christchurch in South Island, told One News it was likely the earthquake could be the country's 'darkest day'.