US team to assist Christchurch rescue efforts

A specialist Disaster Assistance Response Team (Dart) from the United States is heading to Christchurch to help the search and rescue operation following yesterday's destructive 6.3 magnitude quake.

The US Agency for International Development (USAID) Dart team, is made up of more than 70 specialists, including members of the Los Angeles County Fire Department urban search and rescue team.

The team will also bring "all necessary equipment to make live rescues in even the most precarious situations".

"On behalf of the American people, I wish to convey our sympathy, thoughts and prayers to the people of New Zealand who have been affected by this devastating earthquake," USAID Administrator Rajiv Shah said.