A shallow earthquake has left thousands of Christchurch residents feeling rattled minutes after the shaking faded.
Geonet reports the magnitude 3.9 quake hit just before 1.50pm - seven kilometres deep and five kilometres south-west of the city.
More than 10,000 people reported feeling the quake. Most thought the jolt was moderate in strength, but a few reported more intense shaking.
People messaging on Facebook said it felt much stronger in Papanui and Wigram - and as far out as West Melton.
A shopper at Riccarton Mall said the walls shook and the quake sounded like someone jumping on the roof.
