Rivalry between network operators has been put aside. TelstraClear has loaned generators to Vodafone, and Vodafone and 2degrees have provided Christchurch Earthquake Operation centre staff with dual-SIM card mobile phones to aid the rescue and recovery effort.

Computerworld asked each of the telcos if they were satisfied with their response to the earthquake. Here's how they replied.

"I think a more appropriate word would be proud. Seeing the way our people in Christchurch and around the country have rallied to support each other and the people of Christchurch in every way we can. The ideas and efforts of individuals through to huge teams from across the company to provide everything from vital communications support for the emergency relief efforts through to the ability for people to connect with friends and loved ones over temporary phone and internet connections right down to offers of a place to stay or a car to use. It's been a case of thousands of people pulling together with the common purpose of doing anything we could think off to help, within a company that's used its resources to support that in any way possible," says spokesperson Katherine Murphy.