A massive quake, magnitude 7.5 struck 2 minutes after midnight South East of Hamner Springs in the South Island. The quake has caused significant damage from Christchuch to Wellington. 

Tsunami warnings were issued for the entire east coast of NZ – including Wellington – & the Chatham Islands. Tsunami activity was observed in Wellington’s Lyall Bay, and in Lytellton Habour. Evacuations were ordered in Christchurch, Wellington and Hawke’s Bay. In the morning the PM revealed that at least two people had been killed near Kaikoura.  

Epicenter in North Canterbury – Two Confirmed Deaths – Kaikoura Completely Cut Off – Ferries Stranded – Tsunami Warnings – Widespread Damage From Wellington To Christchurch

Aerial pictures of hard hit Kaikoura taken this morning show massive damage to the coastal highway and buildings in the area. Kaikoura is now cut off in all directions. Speaking to Radio NZ, Wellington City Council’s Richard McLean said there was significant damage in Wellington including windows falling out of buildings, cracks in the port and liquefaction in the port area.