New Zealand earthquake death toll rises to 123

Wellington, Feb.26 (ANI): The death toll in New Zealand's earthquake has reached 123 and is expected to rise further.

According to stuff.co.nz website, more than hundred people are still missing and 123 are dead in the earthquake that struck Christchurch, New Zealand's second largest city.

As 6.3-magnitude quake hit the city on February 22, the government declared National emergency on February 23.

"We felt it was justified in this case because of the devastation that's occurred and the likely impact it will have on so many people", said Civil Defense Minister John Carter.

Searchers are looking for people in various buildings where it is feared that more than 100 people are still trapped. These include Japanese students who have been studying English at Christchurch.

This devastating quake is New Zealand's deadliest natural disaster in 80 years. (ANI)