As many as 200 people could still be trapped under rubble after a 6.3 magnitude earthquake hit New Zealand's South Island city of Christchurch on Tuesday. At least 65 people are known to have died, and it's feared the toll will rise.

After tragedy and loss, people find inspiration in many ways.

These survivors were lucky, but their nerves have been tested by aftershocks.

Before large cranes arrived to help rescue efforts, people used bare hands to save those still trapped.

Many of those dragged from the rubble were suffering from severe injuries. Screams from people still trapped under buildings could be heard. Some eyewitness reports are claiming up to 200 people remain trapped.

John Key, New Zealand Prime Minister said "I don't think we can go pass the fact that we may well be witnessing New Zealand's darkest day. The advice I've had at the moment, I think the viewers will understand and appreciate that it's very fluid advice at the moment, but the death toll I have at the moment is 65, and that may rise."

Christchurch's ambulance service is stretched to capacity, and police cars are being used to ferry victims to hospital.

Police are reporting that fires are burning and burst water pipes are flooding streets.

The airport was closed and Christchurch Hospital was evacuated. Power and telephone lines have been knocked out. The quake was also felt in nearby areas.

Sitting on the Pacific "ring of fire", Christchurch has been hit by hundreds of aftershocks since a 7.1 magnitude earthquake struck nearly five months ago.

The city is home to roughly 400 thousand people and is considered a tourist center and gateway to the South Island.