Pretoria - President Jacob Zuma has expressed his condolences at the news of the earthquake that has caused loss of human life and substantial damage to properties and infrastructure in Christchurch.
"We also wish to express our support to the government and people of New Zealand for the commitment, dedication and tenacity with which they are doing everything in their power to assist the affected inhabitants of the area," Zuma said in a statement.
A 6.3-magnitude earthquake hit New Zealand South Island's largest city of Christchurch on Tuesday, leaving 65 people dead.
The 6.3 quake was followed by two powerful magnitude five aftershocks. The New Zealand armed forces have been dispatched to the disaster zone to help the rescue efforts
"We include in our prayers the families and friends of the unfortunate citizens who have perished in this natural disaster and hope that they will find solace in the outpouring of sympathy from people of goodwill from across the world," added Zuma.
