Hundreds report feeling 4.4 magnitude earthquake near Seddon

GeoNet says 856 people reported feeling shaking following the 4.4-magnitude earthquake. Photo / Supplied

Hundreds of people have reported feeling a 4.4-magnitude earthquake near the top of the South Island.

GeoNet said a 10km deep earthquake with "moderate" shaking was recorded 15km southeast of Seddon at 8.16pm.

By 9.30pm, 856 people who had felt the earthquake had reported it to GeoNet, including four reports of "extreme" shaking.

GNS Science duty seismologist Jonathan Hanson said four earthquakes over magnitude 4.0 have been recorded in this area in the last year.

"Following large quakes like Cook Strait in 2013 and Kaikōura in 2016, elevated levels of seismicity are expected."

He said the distribution of the felt reports received for the earthquake tonight were not unexpected for a quake of this magnitude and location.

"This earthquake and others like it are all part of living in the 'shaky isles' and it's a good reminder to be prepared as they could happen at any time."