Tsunami Threat Extended as Surges Arrive on New Zealand Shores

Update: Emergency officials have extended the tsunami threat for New Zealand, urging residents to stay away from shorelines until at least 3pm on Thursday. A massive 8.8 magnitude earthquake struck off the remote east coast of Russia on Wednesday, triggering tsunami waves that have reached multiple countries, including New Zealand, several Pacific nations, the United States, Canada, and parts of South America. This quake ranks among the sixth strongest ever recorded, and the most powerful since the 2011 Japan earthquake, which was a devastating 9.0 magnitude event.

Tsunami currents have already reached parts of New Zealand overnight, with the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) warning that the first surges are unlikely to be the largest. NEMA has stated that the threat for New Zealand’s coasts is expected to remain in place until at least 3pm.

John Price, Director of Civil Defence Emergency Management, told Morning Report that there have been reports of tsunami activity in several coastal areas, including North Cape, Tauranga, Kaikōura, Castle Point, and Christchurch. He emphasized the danger to swimmers, surfers, fishermen, and anyone near the shore, stating, “This is still an active threat. It is still a threat to human life.”

Despite the warnings, some people were still seen walking dogs, running, and swimming at Takapuna Beach. Irina Kalatcheva, one of the individuals present, said, “If it was maybe close to New Zealand, yes of course we will not go to walk, but it's so far away.”

NEMA has reiterated that the threat must be regarded as real until otherwise advised. Price also mentioned a technical glitch in the alert system, which caused some people to receive multiple texts. The agency is currently investigating the issue.

In Northland, the forecasted tsunami activity is expected to coincide with high tide, while Bluff will not see its earliest tsunami waves until at least 4:46 am. Online webcams monitored by RNZ showed no signs of damage overnight.

Boat owners have been advised not to remain on their vessels. In Auckland, four Civil Defence Centres were opened for those living aboard or without family or friends to stay with. No significant issues were reported in the area overnight.

Maritime operations have also been affected. Cook Strait ferries have been diverted from the Tory Channel to the Marlborough Sound’s northern entrance due to tsunami advisories. Three sailings were impacted overnight, adding 40 minutes to the journey. A temporary change was made on Thursday morning before the original route was reinstated.

In Wellington, the East by West ferry, which runs between the CBD and Eastbourne, cancelled services until at least 10 am on Thursday.

While some countries have lifted their tsunami warnings, others have issued new ones. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has urged New Zealanders in affected areas to follow local authorities and inform family and friends in New Zealand of their safety.

Opinion: It is clear that the current situation is a reminder of the unpredictable power of nature. While the distance from the earthquake’s epicenter may offer some reassurance, the reality is that no one is immune to the potential dangers of a tsunami. It is crucial that people remain vigilant and follow official warnings, as even a small surge can have life-threatening consequences.