Not that scary if one is NOT in a high rise building that can pancake, Pyne Gould Corporation building & CTV building (like SG hotel New World).
4 earthquakes hit Christchurch, 2010-2011, liquefaction in many areas, chimneys crashing down. Cracks in many old buildings that needed to be evacuated and abandoned.
Driving on the road during earthquake makes steering slightly difficult. On the ground it feels like sea sickness setting in. A loud roaring sound could be heard during the quake which can last around 30 seconds.
http://christchurchcitylibraries.com/society/disasters/canterbury-earthquakes/