Image by nznationalparty via FlickrPrisoners to be evacuated to make room for rescue workers...
Prisoners will be moved out of Christchurch's Rolleston Prison so it can be used for accommodation for rescue workers.
The prisoners will be moved to Christchurch Mens' prison, which is higher security, to enable use of the 320 beds, said Corrections Minister Judith Collins.
Tourists are also being moved out of the city to Wellington and Auckland to free up hotel rooms.
Ms Collins said the prison had been undamaged by the quake and was serviced by water and sewage and had kitchen facilities.
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