Magnitude 7.5 Earthquake Rocks New Zealand Overnight, Sparks Tsunami Threat

What you need to know

• Initial 6.6 magnitude earthquake revised to 7.5
• Tsunami waves of up to 2m already have been reported in Kaikoura. Waves also reported Wellington
• Tsunami warnings for entire East Coast and people are being advised to head for higher ground
• Ongoing aftershocks being widely felt. Many are over 5 magnitude
• St John getting reports of injuries around Culverden and Kaikoura
• Power is out in many areas
• Roads damaged heading into Cheviot
• NZTA asking people to delay travel on SH1 between Picton and Christchurch and over the Lewis Pass. A number of section of SH1 and SH7 are closed due to slips and visible damage
• KiwiRail has suspended all services. The North Island Main Trunk line (NIMT) south of Palmerston North and in the South Island have been cancelled until further notice.

People in the above coastal areas should:

1. Stay out of the water (sea, rivers and estuaries, including boating activities) 
2.

Stay off beaches and shore areas
3. Do not go sightseeing
4. Share this information with family, neighbours and friends
5. Listen to the radio and/or TV for updates
6. Follow instructions of local civil defence authorities

Evacuation centres:

• Christchurch - Linwood College at 85 Aldwins Rd has been set up for overnight accomodation
• Marlborough - The following facilities are identified as Emergency Response Centres: Okiwi Bay Fire Station/Community Hall, Rai Valley School, Canvastown Te Hora Marae, Havelock School, Okaramio Community Hall, Renwick Community Hall, Wairau School/Community Hall, Linkwater Community Hall/Fire Station, Picton - Waikawa Marae, Rarangi Community Hall/Fire Station, Riverlands School, Seddon School, Ward School.
• Leithfield School in rural North Canterbury is filling with families seeking refuge

- NZ Herald