New Zealand's Prime Minister John Key said that 10,000 homes in Christchurch are lost forever and cannot be rebuilt following the 22nd February earthquake. He also announced a national memorial day of 18 March, with events planned for Christchurch's Hagley Park. Speaking at a news conference, Mr Key said New Zealanders must brace themselves for the possible demolition of many heritage buildings as well as homes. He said some parts of the city cannot be rebuilt due to the weakening of the soil after the quake. The treasury department said yesterday that quake recovery will cost the country 11 billion US dollar. The death toll, put at 166 so far, is expected to rise to around 200 as rescue work continues.