Cook Strait Ferries Detoured, Tsunami Warnings Issued as First Currents Reach New Zealand

Authorities across New Zealand have been on high alert as the first tsunami currents linked to a massive 8.8 magnitude earthquake off Russia’s east coast reached the country’s shores. The quake, which is among the six strongest ever recorded, triggered tsunami waves along multiple regions, including the Pacific nations, the United States, Canada, and parts of South America.

The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) reported that the first tsunami currents were expected to hit New Zealand in the early hours of Thursday. While these initial surges were not expected to be the largest, the agency stressed that the threat must be taken seriously and that the situation could evolve over the coming hours.

As part of the precautionary measures, several Cook Strait ferries were rerouted, with KiwiRail adding approximately 40 minutes to three Interislander sailings. The Marlborough harbourmaster ordered all vessels heading to Picton to use the northern entrance of Marlborough Sound instead of the usual Tory Channel, a decision aimed at ensuring the safety of both passengers and crew.

Boat owners and operators were also advised to avoid remaining on their vessels overnight, with Auckland Emergency Management opening four Civil Defence Centres to accommodate those who did not have alternative accommodation. Two boaties reportedly spent the night at the Waikeke Island centre.

While no significant damage was immediately reported from online webcams monitored by RNZ overnight, the situation remains under close observation. Civil Defence officials in Northland noted that the forecasted tsunami activity in their region would coincide with high tide, increasing the potential impact.

Further south, Bluff was not expected to see its earliest tsunami waves until at least 4:46 a.m. However, the threat remains real, with NEMA emphasizing that the public should continue to monitor official updates and follow local authority instructions.

Internationally, the situation has also raised concerns, with French Polynesia issuing warnings of tsunami waves up to four meters in height, Colombia ordering evacuations along its Pacific coast, and Chile issuing a red alert for Easter Island. Meanwhile, some countries, including Japan, the Philippines, and Russia, have begun to lift their tsunami alerts.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has advised New Zealand citizens in affected areas to follow local authorities' guidance, including any evacuation orders, and to keep family and friends in New Zealand informed of their safety.

As the situation continues to unfold, the focus remains on ensuring public safety, minimizing disruption, and preparing for any potential developments in the coming hours and days.