A magnitude 6.1 earthquake struck New Zealand’s North Island on Tuesday, prompting the suspension of Parliament. Residents across the capital Wellington and in the city of New Plymouth were rattled by the 227km-deep tremor.
New Zealand earthquake: 6.2-magnitude shake halts parliament
he quake was felt most strongly in central New Zealand, including the capital city of Wellington. It struck at a depth of 207 kilometres south-west of Taumarunui.
There were no immediate reports of serious damage or injury. People near the epicentre reported their houses swaying and pictures falling off walls.
Civil Defence Minister Kris Faafoi spoke to reporters at Parliament about the earthquake.
Faafoi says at this stage there are no reports of damage or increased volcanic activity. If there was any major damage he believes it would be known of by now.
The Minister warned of the dangers of aftershocks and asked the public to check on neighbours, friends, and family.
He repeatedly recommended ‘Drop, Cover, and Hold’ in the event of further quakes.
Prelim M6.1 Earthquake North Island of New Zealand Oct-30 02:13 UTC, updates https://t.co/RhtZnkqlUI
— USGS Big Quakes (@USGSBigQuakes) October 30, 2018
‘We are experiencing a substantial earthquake’, the deputy speaker Anne Tolley can be heard saying before asking people to clear the gallery in New Zealand’s House of Representatives. A 6.2-magnitude quake was felt across much of New Zealand on Tuesday, forcing the suspension of parliament in Wellington. Parliament has since resumed and there have been no reports of injury or property damage
