The frequent earthquakes have been discouraging to some local residents in Christchurch and the rest of Canterbury.

The aftermath of the 5 magnitude earthquake yesterday and the extent of its damage in affected areas is still being assessed by residents and authorities.

Nevertheless, resilience is still called for, said Christchurch Mayor Mr. Bob Parker.

In a report on NZ Herald, Mr. Parker said that there may be moments that some local residents have considered the option of moving out of the region especially after yesterday's quake. Residents are still recovering from the September temblor that caused destruction to homes and commercial property.

The NZ Herald said quoting Mr. Parker: "There have certainly been moments when I'm sure we have all had that thought."

Mr. Parker further noted reminding everyone that the region is still amidst of a seismic event. "It had a beginning, but we are not at the end yet."

The 5.0 aftershock, one of several yesterday, struck at 11.32am and was centred 10km southwest of Christchurch at a depth of 9km.

Civil Defence spokesman Vince Cholewa said it would have been felt as a magnitude 7 quake, the report said.

He said yesterday's aftershock "did remind everybody of the opening moments of the event of September 4.

The report said that one of the badly hit suburbs was that of Avonside.