To assist with contacting family and friends, 2degrees says it is giving its Christchurch customers 500 free text messages.

Chief Executive Eric Hertz has said that the free texts were added to customers’ accounts this morning.

All they need to do is pick up their phone and start using them.

"We’re hoping that these free text messages, along with the free calling minutes we provided last week, will help our Christchurch customers stay in touch with family and friends at this difficult time.”

2degrees customers who have made a phone call on their 2degrees mobile in Christchurch since February 22nd have been given this credit automatically.

The free texts - to any mobile in New Zealand – can be used between today and March 20th.