North Island’s East Coast struck by magnitude 4.7 earthquake

A shallow earthquake measuring M4.7 has rattled the East Cape this afternoon. Photo / GeoNet

The North Island’s east coast has been hit by “moderate” shaking after an earthquake on Tuesday afternoon.

GeoNet recorded the quake at 4.18pm, it said on its site.

The 4.7 magnitude quake struck 15km west of Tokomaru Bay, a small settlement 90km north of Gisborne, at a depth of 10km. It was felt in Tai Rāwhiti and the Bay of Plenty, GeoNet said.

Over 400 people have reported feeling the quake, with the majority saying it was “light” or “weak”.

A M4.7 earthquake occurred at 4.18pm today with moderate shaking 15km West of Tokomaru Bay. It was felt in Tai Rāwhiti and the Bay of Plenty and we have received more than 400 felt reports.

For more detail, see https://t.co/wpWrFTWHZs pic.twitter.com/A1BOtOFC7T

— GeoNet (@geonet) September 10, 2024

“Earthquakes of this size in this area are common, so it’s a good reminder that earthquakes can occur anywhere in New Zealand at any time,” GeoNet tweeted.

“In the event of a large earthquake: Drop, Cover and Hold. If an earthquake is Long or Strong: Get Gone.”

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