Auckland – A strong earthquake struck the lower South Island of New Zealand on Wednesday night, prompting a temporary tsunami warning before authorities downgraded it to a coastal advisory.
According to GeoNet, the earthquake occurred at 9:14 pm (NZT), about 40 kilometres north of Te Anau in Southland, at a depth of 53 kilometres.
The quake was initially measured at magnitude 6.3 but was later revised to 5.9 following further assessment. More than 20,000 people reported feeling the shaking through GeoNet’s “Felt Report” system. Seven smaller aftershocks were also recorded in the same region.
The tremor was felt across much of the South Island, including Invercargill, Dunedin, Gore, Cromwell, and Timaru. Many residents reported hearing a loud rumbling sound moments before buildings, furniture and other structures began to shake.
Following the earthquake, New Zealand’s National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) issued a tsunami warning for coastal areas between Milford Sound and Puysegur Point, urging people to move immediately to higher ground or away from the shoreline.
However, after the earthquake’s magnitude was downgraded, NEMA reduced the warning to a coastal advisory, stating there was no longer a threat of widespread coastal flooding.
Authorities have nevertheless warned that strong and unusual sea currents and unpredictable waves may still occur along parts of the South Island’s west coast. People have been advised to stay away from beaches, harbours, rivers and coastal waters until further notice.
As a precaution, the Edith Cavell Bridge near Queenstown has been closed pending an engineering inspection. Motorists travelling through the Crown Range have also been urged to exercise caution due to the risk of rockfalls and minor landslides.
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon, who is currently overseas, is being kept informed of developments by government officials.
No injuries or significant damage had been officially reported at the time of publication. Emergency authorities continue to monitor the situation and have urged the public to follow official updates and safety advice.
