NZ Civil Defense Issues TSUNAMI WARNING Following 7.1 Earthquake

The New Zealand Ministry Of Civil Defense and Emergency Management has issued a Tsunami threat warning following a 7.1 earthquake struck off the coast.

The warning, released via social media and the EQNZ website, instructs folks in the region to “Stay off beaches and shore areas. Do not go sightseeing.” and “People in coastal areas should stay out of the water. Stay off beaches and shore.”

We have issued a Tsunami Potential Threat advisory in all New Zealand coastal areas including the Chatham Islands. MCDEM and scientific advisors are in the process of assessing the situation to determine the severity of the threat to New Zealand.Meanwhile, people in coastal areas should:Note that strong tsunami currents and surges are possibleListen to the radio/TV for further assessment and updatesFollow instructions of their local Civil Defence authorities.  There has been a magnitude 7.1 earthquake 130 km north east of Te Araroa, at a depth of 55km, at 4.37am. Note that strong tsunami currents and surges are possible.  Please keep off beaches.  Listen to the radio / TV for updates.

The shaker struck near:

This is a developing story.