guys now. unbelievable. unbelievable. reporter: the prime minister spoke in parliament at willington before heading to christchurch. this is a city that suffered an enormous earthquake months ago. but it happened at a time when lives were spared. but it s the opposite this time. the central city last time obviously bore some of the brunt, but nothing like this time where it s been utterly devastating. and the buildings collapsed everywhere, there s debris all over the roads, we re in a state of disrepair. it s just hard to describe what was a thriving city a few hours ago has been brought to its knees. reporter: this comes after a stronger quake that hit last september. but the damage today appears to be far more devastating. can you call out to us, please? reporter: according to government officials, rescue teams from around the country are heading to christchurch.