February 26, 2011 7:31 PM

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New Zealand earthquake death toll surges to 145

New Zealand's earthquake death toll surged to 145 on Saturday with grave fears for another 200 missing. Police said 145 bodies have been recovered after Tuesday's 6.3-magnitude quake left large parts of the nation's second city Christchurch in ruins, and warned the toll could rise sharply.Prime Minister John Key, after meeting relatives of the dead and missing during a visit to Christchurch said the disaster may be New Zealand's single most tragic event. Key also announced two minutes' silence to honour the victims of the disaster next Tuesday, exactly a week after the quake struck.Earlier, officials said one-third of Christchurch's city centre faces demolition after the earthquake and warned it may be unable to host the Rugby World Cup. Earthquake Recovery Minister Gerry Brownlee urged the stricken city to be realistic about holding World Cup matches in September and October after the quake caused widespread damage, including to the rugby stadium.

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