The official warning over a tsunami that threatened the entire east coast of New Zealand today has been downgraded to an advisory, but there is still a threat from ocean surges.

Of the 200 New Zealanders known to be in Chile, 80 have so far confirmed they are safe.

Civil Defence authorities have downgraded the tsunami warning for New Zealand. However, New Zealand authorities are warning that there could be surges for up to 24 hours.

New Zealand east coastal areas aren't out of the woods yet, with Civil Defence authorities and scientists electing keep the tsunami warning in place.

Wave activity "appears to be stabilised" at previously-reported levels, Civil Defence Emergency Management says.

The first wave has reached the Chatham Islands, after a massive 8.8 magnitude earthquake hit Chile overnight. An official tsunami alert remains in place for New Zealand's entire east coast.

Santiago is what Auckland should be, writes Jim Eagles.

John Key had "quite a fruitful" discussion with US president Barack Obama during the official Apec leaders' dinner last night, and also breakfasted with him today, writes John Armstrong.

What was the meaning of the giant Easter Island statues and what role did they play in the civilisation's demise?

A young man distraught over a breakup with his girlfriend hanged himself while she watched over a web camera say Chilean police.

In Santiago, the people are passionate and the souvenirs fancy, writes Pamela Wade.