Magnitude 6.6 earthquake strikes Kermadec Islands, no tsunami risk for NZ

A magnitude 6.6 earthquake has struck approximately 670 km north-east of Whakatane but poses no tsunami risk to New Zealand, authorities say.

Earlier, the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) said, “We are assessing whether the M7.0 Kermadecs Islands earthquake has created a tsunami that could affect New Zealand. Anyone near the coast who felt a long or strong quake should move immediately to the nearest high ground or as far inland as you can”.

In their latest update, NEMA said that based on current information, the initial assessment is that the earthquake is unlikely to have caused a tsunami that will pose a threat to New Zealand. They assessed the quake at a magnitude of 6.6.

There is no tsunami threat to New Zealand following the M6.6 Kermadec Islands earthquake. Based on current information, the initial assessment is that the earthquake is unlikely to have caused a tsunami that will pose a threat to New Zealand.

— National Emergency Management Agency (@NZcivildefence) September 8, 2023

The quake happened around 9pm near the Kermadec Islands and was at a depth of 69km.

GeoNet reported the quake as a 6.9 magnitude which also caused two “ghost quakes” that were felt across the North Island.

“Over 4700 people reported feeling shaking around the North Island.

“Remember to Drop, cover and hold in an earthquake and if you are near the coast, remember Long or Strong, Get Gone,” GeoNet said.

We can now confirm this evenings Kermadec earthquake as M6.9 and 665 km north-east of Whakatane. Over 4700 people reported feeling shaking around the North Island. Remember to Drop, cover and hold in an earthquake and if you are near the coast, remember Long or Strong, Get Gone. pic.twitter.com/DE097QdBwj

— GeoNet (@geonet) September 8, 2023

- MORE TO COME.