A powerful 7.8 magnitude earthquake has ripped through New Zealand’s South Island, killing two people, damaging buildings in the area, and causing a 2.5 metre tsunami.
The epicentre of the quake was located 93 kilometres north-east of Christchurch in a rural area dotted with small towns. However, it was felt as far away as Wellington on the North Island, some 200 kilometres away.
Residents said the shaking went on for about three minutes, and was followed by a number of strong aftershocks.
The quake, which hit just after midnight this morning, has taken two lives, and is responsible for a series of aftershocks that have wrecked havoc on the region.
“We don’t have any indications at the moment to believe [the death toll] will rise, but we can’t rule that out.”
Prime Minister John Key, speaking to reporters in Wellington.
The 7.8 magnitude quake was also responsible for a 2.5 metre tsunami – the highest New Zealand has seen in at least 38 years – which struck the coast two-hours later, prompting emergency services to warn people along the coast to move to higher ground to avoid tsunami waves.
However, thankfully, the tsunami warning has now been lifted.
According to Smartraveler, travellers are being advised to exercise “normal safety precautions” in the country, whilst NZ authorities have urged the public to avoid the centre of Wellington until the risk of damage to buildings could be assessed.
It’s also been reported that the quake completely cut off road access to Kaikoura, which is a popular destination for tourists taking part in whale-watching expeditions. And according to reports, one of Wellington’s newest hotels, the Sofitel, has received minor damage as a result of the quake.
Stay tuned to KarryOn for more developments as they happen.