4.3 magnitude earthquake hits Christchurch

A 4.3 magnitude earthquake has struck in Christchurch this afternoon, GNS Science reports.

The quake was struck at 12.13pm and was centred in the suburb of Somerfield at a depth of 9km.

GNS Science received reports it was felt around Canterbury, including one report it was "slightly damaging" in Ilam.

Orion reports power has been cut in Belfast, Marshland, Brooklands, Spencerville following the quake. Power should be back on around 2.20pm, Orion says.

CTV presenter Kineta Knight felt the aftershock strongly in Merivale.

"The house just did a massive shake! Still wobbling," she wrote on Twitter.

- NZ Herald staff