Thousands leave Christchurch after NZ quake
![Christchurch resident, Mike Barthelmeh, returns to inspect his earthquake-damaged property. Mayor Bob Parker says it could take months before parts of the city reopen. [AFP]](http://www.abc.net.au/reslib/201103/r729478_5866739.jpg "Christchurch resident, Mike Barthelmeh, returns to inspect his earthquake-damaged property. Mayor Bob Parker says it could take months before parts of the city reopen. [AFP]")
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Christchurch resident, Mike Barthelmeh, returns to inspect his earthquake-damaged property. Mayor Bob Parker says it could take months before parts of the city reopen. [AFP]
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New Zealand officials estimate 65,000 people have fled Christchurch since a deadly earthquake hit the city nearly two weeks ago.
City officials estimate one-sixth of the population have left New Zealand's second biggest city since the 6.3 magnitude quake struck, killing at least 166 people.
But it is not known how many of those leaving may some day return.
Mayor Bob Parker says it could be months before parts of the city reopen, creating uncertainty for the central business district's 52,000 workers.
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