When we went to the South Island we landed in Christchurch but took off immediately.
It's only when coming back from our tour that we spent some time in the city, or what's left of it.
I was sincerely shocked, even two years after the quake.
Here is a tribute to this wounded city and its inhabitants.
On any picture, click on the geotag link and set the google map to satellite. You will get an idea of the damages extent.