Wellington, Sept 7 NZPA - Schools in Christchurch will remain closed for the rest of this week.

Education Minister Anne Tolley said schools and early childhood education (ECE) services in Christchurch, Waimakariri and Selwyn would stay closed because remain closed all week.

Up until this afternoon's announcement, schools had been expected to resume tomorrow.

"The Ministry of Education has advised that there are still serious health and safety issues following last weekend's earthquake," Ms Tolley said.

"There are also reports of further structural damage as a result of last night's aftershocks, which means that schools which have already been inspected will have to be reassessed.

"We want to have all schools and ECE services operating normally as soon as possible, but our first priority must be the safety of students and staff."

Boards needed to be sure buildings were sound and any hazards cordoned off and that there was a clean water supply before any would open.

The Education Ministry's emergency call centre was providing ongoing advice to boards and principals on 0800 225580 and there was advice to help children and young people cope with any potential emotional difficulties on the ministry's website.

Property inspections will continue this week and further updates will be provided when more information becomes available.

NZPA WGT mt ar gt