Magnitude 6.2 earthquake shakes New Zealand - Felt widely in Wellington, North Island, South Island

[steven36]

Parliament is shaken by deep 6.2 earthquake, then suspended.

 

 

Key Points:

• 6.2 magnitude earthquake, 25km south-west of Taumarunui
• Felt widely around the lower North Island and upper South Island
• No immediate reports of damage
• Parliament temporarily suspended but now resumed
• No tsunami threat

 

A 6.2 magnitude quake has shaken much of New Zealand this afternoon.

Geonet says nearly 15,500 people felt the quake from as far away as Auckland and Bluff.

People in Wellington reported it went on for around 30 seconds.

It is one of the largest earthquakes in New Zealand since a Magnitude 7.8 tremor struck near Kaikoura in November 2016, which killed two people.

Parliament was suspended due to the quake. Deputy Speaker Anne Tolley made the decision after the quake seemed to roll on for some time, shaking the cameras filming proceedings.

 

The sitting of Parliament was suspended to allow time for a check of the buildings and staff. It was resumed about 3.40pm.

 

Quote

 

Hi everyone, we all felt that here at Parliament. Early indications are that it was 6.7 near Taumamaranui. Shakeout taught us all to drop cover and hold. Check your neighbours and family are OK. Will update soon as we get more information. #shakeout

— Kris Faafoi Mana (@KrisinMana) October 30, 2018

 

The quake was at a depth of 165km and hit at 3.13pm 20km south west of Taumarunui.

 

Quote

 

To those who felt the quake - GNS have confirmed their assessment that it was M6.2 and 25km SW of Taumarunui. Widely felt across central NZ. Grabbing updates from officials but in the meantime, do check on those around you!

— Jacinda Ardern (@jacindaardern) October 30, 2018

 

There is no tsunami threat.

 

Quote

 

GNS Science have advised there is no tsunami threat to New Zealand following the 6.2 Magnitude 207 km deep earthquake south-west of Taumarunui. Remember to Drop Cover and Hold during any aftershocks. #eqnz

— MCDEM (@NZcivildefence) October 30, 2018

 

Civil Defence Minister Kris Faafoi said there have been no reports of damage across the country.

Source