6.2-magnitude earthquake rattles New Zealand
A 6.2 magnitude earthquake has struck New Zealand’s North Island.
Residents across the capital Wellington and in the city of New Plymouth were rattled by the 207km-deep tremor.
It was centred 25km southwest of Taumarunui and described as strong, according to GeoNet.
New Zealand’s parliament, which is sitting at the moment, was suspended after the prolonged rumble to allow for the precinct’s buildings to be checked.
Tens of thousands of people across the centre of the country have reported feeling the shaking.
Fire and Emergency New Zealand said there had been no reports of damage and there is no tsunami risk, according to civil defence.
The quake did not disrupt an event in Auckland attended by the Duke and Duchess of Sussex. Prince Harry and wife Meghan were visiting the head office of a charity dedicated to supporting the children of prisoners.
To those who felt the quake – GNS have confirmed their assessment that it was M6.2 and 25km SW of Taumarunui. Widely felt across central NZ. Grabbing updates from officials but in the meantime, do check on those around you!
— Jacinda Ardern (@jacindaardern) October 30, 2018
That was a very widely felt earthquake. We hope you are all okay. More information soon. #eqnz
— GeoNet (@geonet) October 30, 2018
Millennium Falcon down, repeat. Millennium Falcon down. #eqnz pic.twitter.com/hyOfzA25mg
— Andrew Biggs (@AWBiggs) October 30, 2018
