New Zealand earthquake: Death toll rises to 65

Christchurch: New Zealand's leader says at least 65 people have been killed in the earthquake that hit the city of Christchurch.

Prime Minister John Key told reporters in the stricken city that the death toll was expected to rise further.

A 6.3 magnitude earthquake hit Christchurch around lunchtime on Tuesday, collapsing buildings and sending bricks and other heavy debris toppling into busy city streets.