Magnitude 6.0 Earthquake Shakes Lower South Island

A moderate earthquake of magnitude 6.0 struck off the southern coast of New Zealand early this morning, according to GeoNet. The quake occurred at 12:53 AM local time and was centered 115 kilometers northwest of the Snares Islands, approximately 12 kilometers beneath the surface.

The National Emergency Management Agency confirmed there was no tsunami threat following the event. Fire and Emergency New Zealand also reported no immediate damage or injuries. Despite this, hundreds of residents across the region felt the tremors, with many sharing their experiences online.

One caller to Newstalk ZB, Glen, described the sensation as a prolonged swaying motion. He humorously noted that he was listening to an apocalypse-themed audiobook at the time, adding, "This is getting a bit interactive."

Following the initial quake, a 4.8 magnitude aftershock occurred 95 kilometers northwest of the Snares Islands at a depth of 5 kilometers. While the aftershock was less intense, it further reinforced the seismic activity in the region.

GeoNet continues to monitor the area for further seismic events. Residents are advised to remain vigilant and report any unusual activity to local authorities.

As of now, the situation remains stable, and no additional threats have been identified. The community is encouraged to stay informed through official channels for updates.