Prime Minister John Key has confirmed at least 65 deaths in the Christchurch earthquake.

There have been reports around 200 people are trapped in collapsed buildings.

Police say multiple fatalities have been reported at several locations in the central city, including two buses crushed by falling buildings.

A doctor and emergency services are attending.

There have also been reports of bodies being removed from a central city youth hostel.

The major earthquake in Christchurch at 12.51pm has caused widespread damage and injury, with phone lines down throughout the city.

The central city is currently being evacuated as reports are received of widespread damage to buildings and infrastructure.

Other reports include multiple building collapses, fires in buildings in the central and persons reported trapped in buildings.

All available police staff are assisting with evacuations and emergency responses.

Christchurch Hospital is not evacuated and is in operation. There were no injuries reported at Christchurch Airport.

Defence forces have been called in to assist.

Triage centres have been established for people with injuries at:

- Latimer Square, Central City
- Spotlight Mall, Sydenham

- Sanitarium, Papanui

Police advise that people who have evacuated their homes or buildings should report to their nearest Civil Defence sector post - usually schools.