Chorus awaits Wellington earthquake approval

Chorus hopes to return to buildings across Wellington, Seddon and Blenheim today pending structural examinations following yesterday's earthquake.

The 6.5-magnitude quake has subsequently closed all Chorus offices within the area, but the telco insists the company's networks is running normally despite potential disruptions.

"24 buildings where Chorus staff work, across Wellington, Seddon and Blenheim, have been closed pending structural examinations to ensure they are safe to re-enter," Chorus said in a statement today.

"This includes exchange buildings and office buildings.

"We expect these buildings to become progressively cleared for re-entry throughout the day.

"Chorus is also awaiting Civil Defence clearance to re-enter central Wellington."

The telco did however acknowledge the potential for disruption as the day progressed, saying: "Due to the inability to access certain buildings there may be some disruption to the provision of services to end users.

"Chorus will contact any end users directly if we are unable to meet prior appointments.

"We apologise for this disruption and we are focused on returning to business as usual as soon as it is safe to do so."