The national surf life-saving championships have been moved to Mt Maunganui.
The event was scheduled to be held at Christchurch from March 10-13 but following Tuesday's deadly earthquake, Surf Life Saving New Zealand (SLSNZ) decided today to move the event to the Bay of Plenty on the same dates.
"It's clear to us that the infrastructure, accommodation and facilities won't be ready in time for New Brighton to host the championship but above all, we don't want to burden our staff, membership and supporters in the Christchurch area any more," SLSNZ chairman Graeme Cullen said.
"They've been through a tumultuous time and they need time and support to focus on the things that really matter, like grieving and rebuilding."
Canterbury and Otago lifeguards have already been enlisted to help with the crisis in Christchurch , with SLSNZ officially supporting the Ministry of Civil Defence particularly in seaside suburbs such as New Brighton and Sumner.
SLSNZ also considered cancelling the nationals as a sign of respect but Christchurch-based members and club officials convinced them to try and find an alternative venue.
