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Today we will honour, by our silence, those who died in the Christchurch earthquake.

And in those quiet moments we can contemplate what fear or courage, what horror or hope filled their last moments.

People who began their day, just one week ago, the same way as we began our day today.

Their conversations and their laughter were savagely stopped and their homes and workplaces are ruined and quiet.

Mr Speaker, on behalf of the Prime Minister, I wish to make the following ministerial statement.

In particular, I would like to:

Mark the tragic loss of life and injury that has occurred as a result of the earthquake in Canterbury yesterday;

Express our deepest sympathy to the families, friends and colleagues of those who have died and are still missing;

Thank the brave rescue teams who are working so hard in very difficult conditions;

And acknowledge the enormous impact this disaster will have on the communities of Christchurch and Canterbury.

Cabinet has just met for the second time today to discuss the earthquake in Canterbury.

In the last few hours the scale of destruction has become increasingly apparent. As the Prime Minister has said it is now likely that today will go down in history as one of New Zealand's darkest days.

I've just got off the phone with the Prime Minister who has been on the ground and he tells me Christchurch is a scene of utter devastation.

We've had an initial indication from officials that 65 people are dead and indications are that could rise.

Firstly I want to extend my sympathies and condolences to the people of Canterbury. Today's earthquake has caused huge damage and reports are flowing in of serious injuries and loss of life.

I'm sure all New Zealanders will join with me in offering our heartfelt thoughts and prayers to all those families who are affected.