KEY POINTS:
A small earthquake hit Gisborne this morning, but local Civil Defence is not worried.
The quake, measuring 3.5 on the Richter scale, occurred at 7.22am today, and follows a large quake measuring 6.8 in magnitude which struck the region last Thursday night. GNS Science said it was not classed as an aftershock, although several had hit since Thursday.
Gisborne Civil Defence spokesman Vance Walker said the situation was being monitored , but the latest quake was not serious.
Seven buildings remained closed as inspectors looked at their interiors.
"Of note is one known as the Trade Union Hall, to which we're paying special attention (because of structural damage)," Mr Walker said.
Inspectors were working through the holiday season, with some buildings already under repair.
No demolition orders had been given, Mr Walker said.
Some buildings in the city were left partially collapsed, roofs caved in, water tanks and winery vats burst and gaping holes appeared in roadways after the big quake.
- NZPA
